Motor launch (naval)

A WW I motor launch - ML 59
Class overview
BuildersElco
Operators Royal Navy
Built1915–1918
In commission1915–1920s
Completed580
General characteristics ML.1–50 series
TypeMotor launch
Displacement34 t
Length75 ft (23 m)
PropulsionPetrol engine
Speed19 kn (35 km/h)
Complement8
Armament
General characteristics ML.51–550 series
TypeMotor launch
Displacement37 t
Length86 ft (26 m)
PropulsionPetrol engine
Speed19 kn (35 km/h)
Complement6
Armament
General characteristics ML.551–580
TypeMotor launch
Displacement37 t
Length80 ft (24 m)
Speed19 kn (35 km/h)
Complement8
Armament
  • 1 × 13-pdr gun
  • later replaced with 1 × 3-pdr

A motor launch (ML) is a small military vessel in Royal Navy service. It was designed for harbour defence and submarine chasing. Similar vessels were used by the Royal Air Force for armed high-speed air-sea rescue. Some vessels for water police service are also known as motor launches. Motor launches were slower than motor torpedo boats and motor gun boats