naval-forces-focus-french-technology

41Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSRHIBs «Zodiac MilproZodiac Milpro is the world leaderin rigid-hull inflatable boats forprofessional and military use. Itscurrent range is available in hull sizesfrom 4.10 to 11.52 metres. The latestaddition to the range is the ECUME,delivered to French commando forces.Based on the ZH-930 model, also soldto other forces, the ECUME is availablein sizes from 9 to 11 metres. It isdesigned for long-range raids (200nmat 40 kts) in the harshest conditionsand can carry up to 16 commandoswith full equipment.Available with outboard and inboardpropulsion options and with a topspeed in excess of 50kts, the ZH-930and other models such as the ZH-935feature the MACH II stepped hull. Thishull type, developed and patentedby Zodiac Milpro, offers exceptionalmanoeuvrability and stability. TheZH-930 is available with aluminiumor fibreglass hull and conventional,D-shape or hybrid collar options.The hybrid collar is another ZodiacMilpro innovation, which combinesconventional and D-shape profiles tosignificantly increase payload area. TheZH-930 is a hardened, multifunctionRHIB with a modular deck space. Itis air-droppable and suitable for awide range of roles, from deployablecommand post to sea-launched attack,troop deployment and maritime escort.With its reconfigurable deck tracksystem, it can accommodate all typesof equipment, sensors and weaponry.Options are also available to increasetotal payload capacity.In addition to the Zodiac Hurricanerange, the company offers a widevariety of RHIBs for military forces,coastguards and governmentagencies. In service around the world,these models are renowned for theirdependability and durability and canbe provided on a turnkey basis to meetspecific customer requirements. Morethan 20,000 units are operational in 80countries with armed forces customersalone.Many special forces units use theFutura Commando range, availablein hull sizes from 4.2 to 5.3 metres.Foldable and reinflatable for easytransportation and covert operations(sinking on infiltration, then reinflationon exfiltration), these boats haveremovable lower buoyancy tubesinstalled underneath the main collarsto increase payload capacity andimprove rigidity and seakeeping.Usability is another priority forZodiac Milpro. The company worksclosely with operational personnel tooptimise its products and provide allthe accessories they need: stowagesolutions, removable fuel bladders,rapid inflation kits, Milpro AIR(acceleration and impact reduction)suspended seats, etc. The Frenchgroup also offers complete trainingprogrammes to help customersto operate and maintain its iconicproducts. «© MARINE NATIONALE