Tri-Service
Lighter, Further, Smoother: The Royal Navy's New RIB
The Royal Navy's upgrade of its Rigid Inflatable Boats has begun with the unveiling of its first Pacific 24 in Portsmouth.
The boat has new shock-absorbing seats designed to reduce the physical strain on the crew and allow them to travel up to six times further.
Overall weight has been reduced by 150kg, with some of that done by fitting a lightweight 370hp twin turbo diesel electronic engine, which saves weight by having fewer mechanical parts.
Hull weight has also been reduced through the use of a fibre reinforced composite with a foam core.
BAE's Project Manager Ben Mason said.
“The main weight-saving comes through the production process. The new P24s are manufactured from carbon and various types of glass, which are oriented in such a way as to give optimised strength to the boat."
"This increased strength means less material is needed, reducing weight."
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, meanwhile, said:
"These innovative boats will play a vital role in the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary, working from our new aircraft carriers and right across the fleet conducting anti-piracy, counter narcotics, and rescue missions around the world.
"Our growing defence budget means we can invest in a bigger Royal Navy and sustain jobs in Portsmouth and the local area."
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