New Zealand navy issues an RfT for RHIBs
The Royal New Zealand Navy is seeking new RHIBs to swap out its existing fleet. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
The RHIB inventory of New Zealand’s navy is set for a complete overhaul beginning next year.
The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) is hunting for a new fleet of rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) to replace current inventories.
The tender document, issued on 21 October, stated that 26 diesel-powered RHIBs (called naval small craft, or NSC, by the RNZN) are being sought.
The navy wishes to consolidate the number of types of NSC in service, and it prefers a commercial off-the-shelf solution.
Tasks expected of the new NSCs are transferring personnel/light stores; boarding operations; supporting inshore patrol; supporting maritime survey and operational dive teams; force protection; and acting as a fast rescue craft and helicopter crash boat.
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