A nine-metre RIB capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots has been launched by Zodiac MILPRO of Paris.
The Zodiac Hurricane 940 MACH II (Military Air Channelled Hull II) is the newest addition to the company's MACH II series and is expected to attract considerable interest from potential customers in the military and civil security markets.
The new RIB's exceptional speed and performance arises from Zodiac's patented MACH II deep-V hull design. The air channelled aluminium hull reduces water resistance while its deep V configuration combines with it to provide a low centre of gravity. These features result in increased speed and directional stability together with greater manoeuvrability and improved fuel economy.
The ZH940 MACH II operates comfortably in all sea conditions and applications and is available in a variety of outboard engine configurations. When used with twin 260kW engines, the new RIB can maintain its top speed of over 50 knots for an estimated 146 nautical mile range.
The RIB's design and manufacturing quality make it capable of withstanding sustained use in extreme conditions while the fully enclosed cabin and shock mitigation seating ensure optimum comfort for its crew. Further options with inboard engines and a GRP hull are currently under development.
The new boat is intended for hard daily usage and is available in a range of seating and accommodation configurations that can be adapted to the specialised needs of military and civil applications. It follows the Zodiac MILPRO design policy of rugged construction combined with the reliable performance and easy maintenance demanded by military and professional civil users.
All Zodiac Hurricane models have removable collars for ease of maintenance, transport and storage. The standard collars are made from heavy-duty neoprene Hypalon fabric or PU polyurethane and include the option of Zodiac's special intercommunicating valves. The boats also provide the capability of the inflatable collars being exchanged for an even more rugged Durarib foam-filled collar if the need arises.