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.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![“We must end the mentality of ever larger platforms”: Why USVs are scaling]()
“We must end the mentality of ever larger platforms”: Why USVs are scaling
Multiple USV programme milestones announced last week, aligned with a reinforcement of the Royal Navy’s vision for a hybrid fleet, point to innovation-led ambition but also to a structural calculation with resource ceilings that neither London nor Washington can ignore.
-
![As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging]()
As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging
Research programmes and system procurement efforts to counter uncrewed surface and underwater vehicle threats are accelerating as naval drone uptake spreads.
-
![Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached]()
Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached
Australia’s selection of an upgraded Mogami-class frigate marks Japan’s first-ever export of a major surface combatant. With an ambitious 2029 delivery target, the deal could open the door to further naval exports – but inexperience and geopolitical friction with China loom large.
