A render of the Sentinel 780R RHIB in the configuration specified for the RNZN. Image: Sentinel Boats.
A Hobart-based boat builder has been awarded a contract by the New Zealand Defence Force to supply rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) for the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).
Sentinel Boats is based at Derwent Park, and previously supplied three 12.5-metre-long Littoral Manoeuvre Craft (LMC) to the RNZN in 2023.
The latest contract will see 17 780R RHIBs supplied to replace the RNZN’s current Naval Sea Boats and includes an option for three additional RHIBs and research into the viability of an electric-powered version for training purposes.
The RHIBs are manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are powered by an inboard diesel with Hamilton Jet propulsion. The hulls will be built in Hobart before being shipped to New Zealand for their final fit out and commissioning with Sentinel’s New Zealand partners, Hamilton Jet, ENL Marine Electronics, Mainsail Electronics, Hosking Trailers and Shark Seats.
Global maritime classification society DNV will be engaged to provide independent certification of the design, manufacture and sea trails to ensure a level of quality, safety and fitness for purpose that is unparalleled in this class of vessel.
Sentinel Boats CEO George McGuire said the award built on the success of the Sentinel 1250 LMC, with Sentinel recognised as New Zealand Defence Prime Contractor of the Year 2023 by the NZ Minister of Defence.
“The fact that Sentinel Boats has been selected over much larger multinational defence manufacturers is testament to the hard work and pride of the Sentinel team, our partners including one2three naval architects, and the undisputable performance of our boats,” he said.
“Sentinel Boats has pioneered the use of HDPE in high performance military and law enforcement craft, where it has been proven to offer unrivalled durability, impact resistance and anti-fatigue characteristics. At the same time HDPE hulls require minimal maintenance, eliminating downtime and maximising operational availability as well as significantly reducing in-service support costs.”
Mr McGuire said the company was incredibly proud to have earned the trust of the RNZN for the project.
“We are confident that we will exceed the expectations and demands of the service men and women who will use our boats as they undertake what are, at times, challenging and demanding operations,” he said.
“Our aim is to collaboratively design and build boats that allow crews to perform their mission, and to get them home safely every time.”
The first of the 780R RHIBs is scheduled to be delivered in late 2025, with the full order being completed in 2027.
