Rigid Inflatable Boat

A rigid inflatable boat (RIB) combines a solid fiberglass or aluminum hull with inflatable tubes running along the sides. The rigid hull cuts through water cleanly, while the air-filled tubes add buoyancy and stability, even in choppy conditions. Hull lengths range from 3.5 metres for small patrol craft up to 10 metres or more for larger operational vessels. Tube material is usually Hypalon or PVC, both resistant to UV damage and abrasion from rocks or dock contact.

Multiple air chambers run along each tube, so a puncture in one section doesn’t sink the boat or leave it unstable. Engines mount at the transom, ranging from 15hp on smaller boats up to 300hp or more on larger patrol and rescue versions. Top speed varies with engine size and hull weight, typically 30 to 45 knots for a mid-size RIB. Deck layouts include bench seating, a centre console with steering and throttle controls, and mounting points for radios, radar, or weapon systems on security variants.

Coast guard and navy units use RIBs for coastal patrol, boarding operations, and interception work, since the boats handle rough water better than a flat-bottom hull at speed. Search and rescue teams use them to reach capsized boats or flood victims quickly, with the inflatable tubes acting as a stable platform for pulling people aboard. Port security and customs teams also rely on RIBs to intercept and inspect vessels entering harbor limits, moving faster than the boats they’re checking.

Tactical Supply Pakistan supplies rigid inflatable boats to coast guard units, port security teams, and search and rescue organizations across Pakistan. Options include open deck and console configurations, with engine and hull size selected based on intended patrol or rescue duties.