Motor torpedo boats, also known as MTBs or PT boats, were agile and fast vessels used during World War II. These boats were designed to launch torpedoes from close range and carry out hit-and-run attacks on enemy ships. Today, these vessels are mainly used for coastal patrol or as recreational boats. Synonyms for the term "motor torpedo boat" include PT boat, motor gunboat, fast attack craft, or simply torpedo boat. These vessels were a crucial part of naval warfare during the 20th century and continue to be an important component of maritime defense today.