Old look, state-of-the-art technology: new rescue and tactical boats for the Navy

State-of-the-art technology, modern safety standards – familiar boat: In early 2024, two new and modernized Rapid C-810 rescue and tactical boats were handed over to Naval Flotilla 2 in Wilhelmshaven. In future they will be used on the class F123 and F124 frigates.

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The first boat has already been successfully integrated on board Hamburg, a class F124 frigate, and is used by the crew: as a rescue boat for sea rescue operations, as a boarding craft or for transporting personnel and material.

The two rescue and tactical boats were procured in addition to the twelve existing up to 15-year-old Rapid C-810 boats. Gradually, these older boats are also to be replaced by the modernized version.

Old look – modern interior

The new boats have hardly changed in appearance, but now comply with the latest safety requirements and are equipped with state-of-the-art technology: Apart from a completely new power train and modern radio and navigation systems, shock-absorbing seats have also been integrated. In addition, there are many adaptations to make better use of the equipment. For example, the new features include individually adjustable deck rails for securing the seats and materials as well as a replaceable and easy-to-repair inflatable tube fender. Inflatable tube fenders are used, among other things, to protect the outer hull of the boat from damage.

In order to make the new acquisition as cost-effective as possible, products and materials that have already been introduced into the Navy are used for the construction of the boats – thus implementing the "identical parts concept". A positive side effect: Fewer spare parts need to be procured and stocked. This reduces both the logistic effort and personnel costs.

The modernized boat is a great advantage, especially for the users: Since technology and functioning are already familiar, the boats can be put into service immediately.

On the whole, the life cycle costs, i.e. the costs from procurement to decommissioning, have thus decreased.