SERVICE: Navy
DESCRIPTION: Hydrofoils are the Navy's fastest ships, with speeds in excess of 40 knots on the foils.
FEATURES:
The Pegasus class hydrofoils operate offensively against hostile surface combatants and other surface craft and conducts surveillance, screening and special operations. They have good range on their diesels, excellent sea keeping qualities, and fast response to requirements for speed. They are available for a variety of missions, including involvement in the national drug interdiction program.BACKGROUND:
The six Pegasus class PHMs form a single squadron, operating in the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico from Key West. Since 1983, they have accounted for 30 percent of all surface Navy-assisted drug seizures.
