The Proteus class boat is an Extreme Endurance,, Rapid Response Unmanned Surface Vehicle, offering true multi-role capability, ranging from Fisheries Protection to Search and Rescue, Scientific data capture and Post Disaster response. The Proteus craft has been developed from the foundational work provided on the smaller Taniwha class boat. While the Taniwha class craft is designed with task specific operations and uses modular payloads, the Proteus is designed as a marine version of the Swiss army knife. It is a stand-alone system that provides solutions to multiple challenges. The craft harnesses wind and solar power to battery banks which allows it very long periods of constant presence at sea. The twin electric drive system enables a rapid speed to points of interest, particularly for fisheries incursions or disaster response events. Its physical scale of 6.5 metres in length allows it to carry a wide range of multiple payloads and it's stealthy physical characteristics means that it is seen and heard only when it wants to be. On board are a range of advanced operational systems including AIS, radar, sonar, optical and infrared cameras that enables it to see and be seen. Payloads include a range of scientific research sensors, a remotely deploy-able life raft and an unmanned aircraft. In emergencies the craft itself can double as a life boat. The craft's unique aircraft carrying capability offers a powerful "eyes in the sky" capability for all operations, whether it be enforcing fisheries, checking post disaster damage to remote Pacific communities or searching for survivors of other sea vessels in distress. This is a true "blue water" craft designed and built for open ocean operations.
