Austal offers IRV vessel

World-wide security concers create niche market for new ship type

The heightened emphasis on security around the world?s ports and shipping lanes has motivated Austal Ships to design a high-speed Incident Response Vessel (IRV) that can be configured to match a range of patrol, rescue and reconnaissance mission profiles.

The platform for the IRV is a 41.20 metre long aluminium catamaran which offers speeds up to 32 knots, a shallow draft and high degree of manoeuvrability. The catamaran?s large deck area and stability will allow for comfortable evacuation of passengers, i.e. 350 seated or 50 stretchers and 80 seated, in emergency situations while the vessel?s foredeck helicopter transfer zone will ensure airlift facilities.

The new design will have a hull draft of 1.20

, depth moulded hull of 3.87 metres, and a moulded beam of 11.80 metres. The vessel will incorporate a medical treatment facility and sleeping facilities for 10 crew and a 14-member incident response team and will be suitable for use as an inshore, harbour based response vessel or for extended coastal patrols.

Speeds of up to 32 knots will be achieved by a propulsion system consisting of two MTU 16V 396 TE74L (or equivalent) engines, two Reintjes or ZF gearboxes and 2 Kamewa 63 SII (or equivalent) waterjets. Higher speeds will be possible with alternative arrangements which include four engine options. The vessel will have a fuel range of 460 nautical miles with a 20 % reserve.

An Austal spokesman said the raised wheelhouse, which offered 360degree vision, would enhance the vessel?s surveillance effectiveness. “Depending on the situation, the incident response team may utilise the IRV?s two fast RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) to conduct boardings of suspect shipping or assist survivors of a maritime accident,” he said.

“Alternatively, they may be placed ashore or onto offshore platforms to conduct special forces operations, establish a water-based means of supply and evacuation in an emergency, or control sea access in a law enforcement role.”