The South African Navy will play host from today to the latest high-speed, hi-tech naval craft from the United States, the HSV-2 Swift.

The vessel recently completed the fastest-ever transit of the Northern Great Barrier Reef from Cairns to Bobby Island.

It travelled 488 nautical miles in 12.5 hours at an average speed of 39.04 knots.

US consulate spokeswoman Petro Mayoss said the Swift would conduct a series of experiments, exercises, demonstrations and training events and would be docked at Simon's Town and Cape Town harbour until Sunday.

With acknowledgement to the Cape Times.