Delta has launched one of the largest RIB’s in the world. After years of development, Seawork 2005 saw the first public appearance of this latest model at the cutting edge of RIB technology.

Designated the AARC (Autonomous Rescue & Recovery Craft) this Delta 19m has many novel features. The sponsons are a hybrid construction that allows the craft to take advantage of the energy absorption properties of an air filled tube with the damage resistance of closed cell foam. Carbon fibre shafts have permitted the engines to be placed in the optimum position without the weight penalty that conventional steel shafts would incur, and the cabin is a double decker.

The ARRC is an integral part of "Jigsaw", BP's innovative Rescue initiative for their North Sea platforms which will provide enhanced Rescue & Recovery arrangements. In an emergency, helicopters will be deployed from strategically located platforms with the ARRC acting as the marine element. Each ARRC will have a crew of six including a fully trained paramedic and is capable of operating in seas of 7 m significant wave height.

In the event of an emergency rescue, the ARRC has the facilities on board to house 21 survivors in comfort and to perform essential triage and basic life saving initiatives including Cannulation, Intubation and Haemorrhage Control. In addition the ARRC has a clear aft deck area that enables a "Helivac" of seriously injured survivors to be completed in the severest of sea states.

Powered by twin 1000 hp CAT 18's linked to Hamilton 521 Waterjets and with the latest onboard Navigation & Ship control systems linked to Hi Visibility LCD displays she is capable, in continuous mode, of cruising at 30 kts. Top speed is currently commercially sensitive but dependent on loaded condition it is understood to be well in excess of 35 kts.

Following the initial sea trials in early June, Delta Managing Director Charles Dyas said that he was delighted that such a leading edge craft should perform so well "out of the box" commenting that the performance predicted by one of the most comprehensive series of tank tests ever undertaken in a boat of this size were born out in real life.

Eight ARRC's which are due to come into service with BP are specifically engineered for their Rescue & Recovery role but this craft is obviously so versatile that derivatives for other Patrol duties are already under development.

Delta is acknowledged as a world leader in RIB technology and has craft operating in every ocean.

Delta craft are the preferred choice for many Ministry of Defence organisations, including the UK MOD, Customs Organisations, Police Forces, Coast Guards, Offshore Oil & Gas Industries, Rescue Services, Fire Authorities, Homeland Security Operations, Offshore Asset Protection Agencies and Commercial Operators. Delta hosted two stands at this years Seawork show and had a number of craft on the water.

Delta Ribs

June 2005