In a strategic collaboration between three industry leaders in naval architecture, composite engineering, and Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) construction, a new generation of RIB has been developed that sets a fresh benchmark for performance, structural integrity, and endurance. By integrating Finite Element Analysis (FEA), advanced composite materials, and precision engineering, this project represents a significant advancement from legacy RIB designs developed just 15 years ago.
Revolutionising Hull Design Through Naval Architecture
At the forefront of this innovation is Petestep AB, a leader in performance-focused naval architecture. Applying a patented hull design, Petestep has achieved an impressive 20% reduction in induced vertical peak accelerations, significantly improving crew comfort and operational capability in rough seas. While traditional RIB hulls prioritise speed, they often compromise ride quality. This new hull form delivers smoother wave handling, enabling higher speeds in more challenging sea states. For military and defence operations that depend on rapid response and extraction, this represents a decisive tactical advantage.
Structural Engineering and FEA-Optimised Layouts
A high-performance hull must be supported by equally refined internal systems. Boomeranger Boats Oy provided their expertise in structural engineering and layout optimisation, focusing on tank placement, accessibility, and dynamic stability across all loading conditions. By carefully managing the vessel’s longitudinal and vertical centre of gravity, the team ensured optimal trim and control throughout the mission profile. This results in a vessel that feels lighter at the helm, responds precisely to steering input, and maintains safety and stability under operational stress.
Composite Engineering: Lighter, Stronger, Smarter
Solico Engineering B.V. introduced a major advancement in composite structural performance by applying Bureau Veritas (BV) classification standards—far more demanding than the ISO 12215-5 criteria typically used for leisure vessels. These standards enforce stricter deflection limits and a broader range of load cases, pushing the structure to meet higher thresholds of stiffness and safety.
Despite these tougher requirements, the team delivered a 22% reduction in total structural weight, achieved through meticulous design and the use of resin infusion techniques with advanced composite materials. This method not only ensures high-quality laminate production but also supports environmental goals by reducing styrene emissions.
The weight savings have significant implications. A lighter structure supports deeper-V hull geometries that enhance seakeeping and reduce slamming. It also enables increased payload capacity, greater fuel reserves, extended operational range, or improved speed—each a vital asset for modern naval missions.
Performance Transformed by Engineering Excellence
Previous-generation RIBs, while capable of reaching 40 knots, were often criticised for their uncomfortable vertical accelerations, which contributed to crew fatigue and reduced mission endurance. The new vessel achieves similar or greater speeds while dramatically improving comfort and control. By combining innovative hull design, precision weight distribution, and FEA-based structural engineering, this RIB delivers consistent, predictable handling and increased mission resilience.
Setting a New Standard in Naval Composite Design
This tri-company collaboration shows how integrated innovation in composite engineering, FEA modelling, and naval architecture can push naval platform performance far beyond traditional expectations. The use of lightweight, high-strength materials, paired with rigorous structural analysis, has delivered a platform optimised for modern operational demands.
Results
