Kuwait orders 29 fast interceptors from Tampa Yacht

MAY 18, 2015 — A series of 29 fast coastal interceptor-class (FCI) vessels ordered by the Kuwait Coast Guard from Tampa Yacht Manufacturing LLC will feature total drive solutions from Twin Disc, featuring its Arneson ASD11 surface drives and Rolla propellers.

The trailerable 44-FCI features carbon-fiber-reinforced, all-composite construction with NIJ Level IIIA ballistic protection on the cabin. Designed for a crew of four to six, it utilizes shock-mitigation seating to reduce fatigue and features a broad range of weaponry and state-of-the-art electronics.

Dual MAN R6-800 turbocharged engines develop a total power of 1,600 hp to give the 44-FCI a top speed exceeding 55 knots at full load, thanks in part to the surface-piercing design of its Arneson Surface Drives that reduce the appendage drag by 50% compared to conventional submerged systems. With its matched, five-blade, high-efficiency nibral Rolla propellers, the craft has a quicker acceleration and a better payload-to-power ratio. Fast operation stability is enhanced with trim tabs from Twin Disc.

“The Arneson Surface Drives provide the most efficient means of transferring the maximum amount of thrust from the engine to the water,” said Bob Stevens, Tampa Yacht Manufacturing CEO. “The high-quality materials and robust construction of the drives combine proven reliability, and low-cost maintenance and service.”

Speed is of the utmost importance for interception, but for tactical operations such as boarding, precise control is required.

The 44-FCI employs Twin Disc’s MGX-5114 A QuickShift marine transmissions, matched EC300 Power Commander electronic control and bow thruster. Together, these give the boat the precision low-speed maneuverability critical when coming alongside another vessel in a wide range of sea conditions.