After extensive testing and evaluation of the vessels, the U.S. Special Operations Command selected the Aluminum/water jet propulsion version as the new MK V SOC. Twenty of the vessels were built and designated into ten, two boat teams complete with transporters, tractors and other required support equipment.

In early 2000, Argent Marine became intrigued with providing a high-speed thrill ride or “watercoaster.” Being aware of the extraordinary capabilities of the MK V, Argent began investigating the possibility of constructing a civilian version of the MK V to give the public a taste of the excitement of riding the same kind of vessels used by the U.S. Navy Seals and other Special Forces.

At about the same time, the builder of the MK Vs put the "XFPB TEST" and the "MK V A, PROTOTYPE" up for sale. In May 2000, the Argent Marine Companies purchased both vessels and began the process of converting them to USCG certified Small Passenger Vessels for use as a water thrill ride and general high speed servcie craft purposes.

Over the course of a year the "XFPB TEST" was fully overhauled and reconditioned under the watchful eye of the U.S. Coast Guard. Additionally, all the required safety equipment, fire fighting systems and other systems required by the U.S. Coast Guard for high speed Small Passenger / Cargo Vessels were designed, approved and installed. All design and engineering work required for this project as well as much of the physical work was performed by Argent. The "XFPB TEST" has been renamed the M/V BARRACUDA and has seen operation in Virginia Beach, Virginia; Key West, Florida; and the Chesapeake Bay as a thrill ride as well as more utilitarian work as a high speed crew / supply / cargo service vessel.

The "MK V A, PROTOTYPE" has been renamed the "BARRAMUNDI".

The unfortunate events of September 11 have caused an across the board review of the security of waterfront infrastructure in the United States. It is imperative that sophisticated marine assets be deployed to enhance existing or implement new waterfront security, surveillance and patrols.

Argent's vessels M/V BARRACUDA and M/V BARRAMUNDI are just such critical assets. As such, Argent has put plans in place to allow the BARRACUDA to be rapidly reconfigured as a "SUPER SENTRY" security and patrol vessel. The BARRACUDA can be ready to go under a time charter arrangement with a two man crew in a very short period of time to meet critical patrol and surveillance missions.

The "BARRAMUNDI is currently under overhaul and conversion to a highly capable security vessel unmatched by any other vessel outside the military.