Advanced Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (Small)

The Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (Small) (CRRC(S)) is used by Special Operations Forces (SOF). The current craft, underway, produces a highly discernible bow wave that enhances its probability of detection. A primary means of reducing the detect- ability of the CRRC(S) is to decrease the bow wave and wake of the craft that will enhance the survivability of the craft and crew in the combat arena. To improve the current CRRC(S), designs must be sought that will improve seakeeping capabilities and speed as well as embody low detectability. The transom material should be non-reflective yet retain a dimension compatible with egress from the Forward Escape Trunk (FET) of a 688 class submarine. MARAVIA is the premier builder of inflatable crafts, has technical knowledge of the many problems associated with these platforms and has studied ways and means to improve the performance of CRRC(S). Our plan utilizes a rigid inflatable material called "INFAB" that can be shaped into hull forms of superior seakeeping characte- ristics with the potential to reduce the spectral signature of the craft at all speed and load conditions. The reduction of spray and wake of the new craft will be crucial to any proposed design. The need to retain the folded size, weight, and texture of the current craft further serves as a guideline for new design options.