Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the craft at Joss House Bay, Sai Kung, Mr Koo said: "Supported by an advanced day and night camera system, the new craft will provide Marine Police with the modern technology and equipment necessary to interdict illicit activities at sea and at the same time provide a faster response capability."

Each MPL is 19 metres in length and five metres in breadth. With a shallow draft of one metre, a MPL can speed up to 45 knots. Each MPL is also installed with advanced navigational equipment, including Differential Global Positioning System, Echo Sounder, Radar, Electronic Navigational Chart and Satellite Compass.

The $445 million worth VMPR project, to be fully implemented in 2010, comprises a Central Command System, two Barge Operating Platforms (BOPs), 17 MPLs and 23 Divisional Fast Patrol Craft (DFPC). Five MPLs, six DFPC and the two BOPs were commissioned in April last year.

Director of Operations Koo Sii-hong inspects the new launches during their demonstration, accompanied by Marine Regional Commander Chang Mo-see

Mr Koo says the new launches will provide a faster response capability in interdicting illicit activities at sea

The new launches give a demonstration on their manoeuvrability"

Each launch is presented with a plaque commemorating its commissioning

Mr Koo and Ms Chang with crew members of the new launches at Marine Regional Headquarters after the commissioning ceremony