What do wind farms at sea and military technology have in common? CTruk amphibious vessels.
Boatmaker CTruk, which builds wind farm service vessels, has launched a prototype craft for the military based on THOR, aka the Twin Hulled Offshore Raider.
THOR can be configured for a range of military and security tasks like assault and force transport. There are also riverine and coastal patrol options as well as a fire support configuration. THOR could also deploy on tasks like mine countermeasures and interdiction. The key is that one vessel can take on a range of roles by being highly adaptable.
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These new vessels can be extended to a length of 72 feet and features a patented flexible pod system. The pod system means it can be re-configured in less than 8 hours.
Passenger or other specialist pods can be fitted. The deckhouse can be moved to free up additional deck space.
THOR has a catamaran hull that will also form the foundation of the new military variant. Made from advanced composite materials, the company uses a resin infusion composite construction process to reduce weight and ensure an enhanced hydrodynamic shape.
For propulsion, the vessel leverages water jets. Alternative propulsion can also be fitted out.
CTruk's Avenger is another new option available to the military and security market. A “mother ship” can carry and launch this amphibious rescue vessel capable of carrying four onboard.
Avenger can work up to approximately three miles from its mother ship accessing tough spots in shallow water, offshore sand banks and other tricky places inaccessible to most vessels at low tide.
For natural disasters, Avenger can also deploy to support humanitarian missions. It could be very useful to deliver aid and access civilians cut off from support travelling by road due to flooding.