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Key Features

  • SIMS

    Systems and Information Management System (SIMS)

    One of the biggest risks for crew members aboard a lifeboat in rough seas is being injured while moving around. A bespoke RNLI solution known as Systems and Information Management System (SIMS) addresses this using the latest in computer technology. SIMS means that many on-board controls for operating and controlling lifeboats can be managed remotely and the crew can remain in their seats for longer. Using the system also allows better task sharing between crew members as various functions can be monitored and controlled from virtually any location on the boat. SIMS is built using solid-state technology and incorporates a chain of back-up systems. In the unlikely event that all back-ups should fail, the lifeboat can still be operated using conventional systems.

  • Self righting trials

    Self righting

    All RNLI all-weather lifeboats are inherently self righting and undergo a rigorous righting trial before joining the fleet. Should an all-weather lifeboat be knocked over in extreme weather, it will automatically right itself within a few seconds.

  • Righting and restarting training

    Righting and restarting

    B and E class inshore lifeboats feature a manually operated, self-righting mechanism that inflates a large airbag with compressed air. The D class can be righted manually by its crew who are fully trained in manual capsize procedures. All inshore lifeboats are fitted with inversion-proofed engines that can be restarted following a capsize.

  • crew using radio

    Navigation and communication

    All-weather lifeboats are fitted with the latest in navigation, location and communication equipment - including electronic chart plotter, VHF radio with direction finder, radar and global positioning systems (GPS). Inshore lifeboats and hovercraft also have VHF radio and GPS, with the Atlantic 85 and E class carrying the additional radar.

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