Zodiac Milpro wins French Navy order
The French defence ministry has received the first advanced ECUME RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) manufactured by Zodiac Milpro and has placed an order for nine boats.
This marks the first part of an investment option that will ultimately result in the delivery of another 10 of these advanced new boats.
The ECUME has been developed for military and civil use by Zodiac Milpro International and its Canadian subsidiary, Zodiac Hurricane. The ECUME will enter service as a multi-mission craft that can be deployed individually or as part of a powerful assault group.
The RIB is suitable for conducting raids from shore or from a naval vessel and can be deployed from any of the principal classes of French navy frigates. It can also carry the full spectrum of commando weaponry and equipment in addition to advanced radio communications. This will also enable an ECUME to operate as a command post for naval operations.
Measuring 9.3m long, it is powered by two diesel inboard engines that were designed specifically for the purpose by Volvo Penta.
With a maximum cruising displacement of seven tonnes, the ECUME RIBs are able to undertake long distance raids carrying 12 fully equipped navy commandos at speeds in excess of 40 knots.
The aluminium or GRP (on the ECUME) air step hull’s low centre of gravity enables the boat to sustain high speeds in demanding sea conditions while retaining comfort and security.
Visit Zodiac Milpro at Mercator Media Ltd’s Seawork International on stand MS5.
