Vampire fast deployment modular RIB launches
British performance boatbuilder Ring Powercraft has launched the Vampire – a collaboration with marine leaders including EP Barrus and Simrad to form a rapid deployment transporter on a fully modular RIB platform.
Developers are eyeing up tactical, military and superyacht markets for the Vampire. Ring Powercraft says the high-performance transport platform is multi-operational – the open aft deck with quick-release track mounting system facilitates deployment and recovery of everything from drones to quad bikes.
The first model on the water is the VT-1050, the smaller of two model sizes, boasting a twin jet ski system, with the larger VT-1250 having capacity for four jet skis plus crew. According to Ring, a wide range of propulsion options are available with air, land or sea insertion variants.
Ring’s collaboration partners:
- Alamarin: water jet and Sigma control system
- EP Barrus: Yanmar inboard engines
- Golden Arrow Marine: tactical water craft
- Henshaw Inflatables (Wing Group): hypalon tubes
- Seadek: HD shock mitigating flooring
- Simrad: tech equipment
- Ullman: suspension seating and steering bar system
- Vanclaes: jet ski loader track module
Ring’s CEO David Jackson says: “Vampire is a ground breaking project in pursuing our vision for modular boating across our ranges. Applications for commercial and tactical functions were a key driver, however, the multi-functional aspect also appeals to the leisure and superyacht sectors and you will see this theme continue in our future product launches including the Arksen 45. The ability to easily transform the boat’s function in a matter of minutes has cost and operational benefits for all types of professional users, individuals and families who want the freedom to be able to enjoy a wide range of activities.
“We first floated the concept to a limited number of end users back in 2018 when we launched our M1050 tactical RIB at Seawork. This first Vampire demo boat build started in early 2020 and experienced some delays due to covid,” says Jackson.
Jackson says that in the superyacht industry the ability to change function means that the mother ship can carry fewer support vessels. The Vampire essentially could carry out crew transport, supply transport, toy transport, ship to shore/beach excursions, and security.
“We chose a collaborative approach to optimise design by working with top industry experts in their various fields relating to the craft and its operation. I would like to thank all of our partners who have shown outstanding support from supply, technical and resource perspectives. Our thanks also go to the many end users who have kindly assisted with their invaluable feedback,” says Jackson.
