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special opperations.

From initial concept the ZeroDark Riverine multirole platform has been developed to provide unique enhancements to critical river and near shore operations. It is optimizable so that operators can fully utilize deck space to their requirements, enabling the best balance of operability, visibility, performance, and protection.

Hull form is drawn from the proven inshore Norson FV design which has been customized to generate solid performance and handling in combination with water jet propulsors. These aggressive hull lines complement tight high-speed handling as well as minimizing impacts from collisions and groundings. Built from DuplicAl® patented hull forming technology the structure offers unmatched strength and skin thicknesses whilst reducing hull panel joins to the absolute minimum.

Standard powering is through twin inboard turbo diesels coupled to water jets. Alternative powering options are available with a max speed up to 50 knots. The vessel can crew up to 12 with aft, mid ship, and fore deck movable seating options located strategically to offer complete ballistic protection. Forward centre console houses all operator equipment, navigational, and communication systems and is fully protected to established levels. Multiple equipment storage areas are available throughout the deck space with simple easily accessible hatches for serviceability and maintenance.

Engine Bay platform lends to easy boarding operations for crew. Beaching activities are complemented with a bow door system. In addition, two forward side doors are provided with ballistic protection to support beaching activities whilst supplying vital protection to the crew.

The vessels low profile, lack of appendages, and angular design reduced its RCS as well as its visibility.

The ZD 11.5 R combines high-speed efficiency with low weight and a comfortable operation. In the layout of this example configuration, ergonomics and comfort of the driver were particularly taken into account: The unique patent-pending adjustability of the steering unit, which can be extended and retracted via a switch, allows drivers to position themselves according to their stature and preferred driving position. The ZD 11.5 R has already been extensively tested in training and operations of special units.

The ZD 12.2 D is a sample configuration of a high-speed multipurpose open deck boat, specially designed for operational purposes. The aft and front platforms of this model are suitable for boarding activities and enable good handling of equipment. The deck layout can be designed for up to 12 passengers, with shock & G-force absorbing spring seats. Cargo rails integrated into the deck allow the seats to be pushed together as required, depending on the number of people or on the individual mission.

The Yamaha triple "XTO Offshore®" 425 hp outboard engine enables a top speed of up to 65 knots. Other propulsion options are also available. The ZD 12.2 D is equipped with extra-large fuel tanks that enable a range of 250 nm at a cruising speed of 50 knots. The ZD 12.2 D has been developed in cooperation with German special forces and has already been extensively tested on missions.

The ZD 12.8 R is a next-generation high-speed multipurpose RIB. It is available in various engine configurations. With the triple Mercury outboard engines speeds of 80 knots can be achieved. This model was developed over three generations, the ZD 12.8 R being the Mark III generation. ZD 12.8 R carries 6 passengers with a pilot and a navigator. This model was also specially designed by Norson Design Works to best meet customers’ requirements. The hull was constructed using modern Ophardt Maritim robotic systems to ensure the accuracy and symmetry required for safe operation at high speeds. The variable step hull has an overall length of 12.8 m. All systems and devices are in easily accessible locations to enable maintenance. The hull has four watertight compartments, each with its own bilge pump and monitoring system. The boat has a range of 200 nautical miles at a speed of 60 knots. Multiple layouts and additional seating are available to meet customers’ requirements. In addition to its high-speed stability, the platform enhances its exceptional seaworthiness as well as some of the best high-speed maneuverability in its class.