The Royal Canadian Navy is replacing the RHIBs (Rigid Hill Inflatable Boats) on the Halifax class frigates*. The new boats called MRBs (Multi-Role Rigid Inflatable Boats) are 9 meters long and can also carry up to twelve persons in shock absorbing seats. They have two diesel engines driving twin screws and can achieve 40 knots.
Each of the Halifax class frigates will receive two of the craft and have had new cranes fitted to deploy and recover them. The lifting gear secures to the structure seen at midships of the boat.
Zodiac Hurricane Technologies was awarded the contract to built thirty of the boats and all should be in service by early 2026. The boats have a rigid hull with an inflatable collar that serves as flotation device and fender.
The multi-role capability includes Search and Rescue, Humanitarian Aid, and Interdiction. There is a bit dead centre astern which can be used for towing.
Other branches of the Canadian government's marine services also use RHIBs, including the Canadian Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police:
The RCN's Fleet Diving Unit Atlantic (FDUA)also operates some RHIBs:
* REVISION
The boat shown in the first photo is NOT the type assigned to the Halifax class frigates, but is in fact a MRRB attached to the AOPS ships: A Multi-Role Rescue Boat.
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