Delivering a Next‑Generation Refit for the RNLI Shannon Class

First Vessel To Benefit in Raymarine and RNLI Partnership

RNLI vessels have historically used a system known as SIMS (Systems and Information Management System); this electronic integrated bridge system allows lifeboat crew to monitor, operate, and control various functions directly from their seats, including navigation, radio communications and engine management. 

Following the RNLI’s announcement that Teledyne Raymarine were successful in their tender for the SIMS replacement program, both parties wanted to make a positive start, and the first project was to initiate the Raymarine refit on the Shannon class (AWL) All Weather Lifeboat.

The Shannon is the RNLI’s latest all-weather lifeboat with a top-speed of 25 knots and a survivor capacity of 61. The fleet of 68 vessels around the UK and Ireland is highly versatile for undertaking SAR (Search and Rescue) operations in any conditions. 

The RNLI had the Shannon relief vessel 'ON1333' available, so this would be the first vessel for the refit campaign.

A Full Electronics Refit

The scope of the SIMS system replacement is for a full uplift of navigation electronics to adopt and embrace the capabilities offered by the latest generation of Teledyne Raymarine equipment. To support this program, Raymarine has fitted products from the Teledyne Raymarine, FLIR Marine, and Raymarine Commercial product lines.

Teledyne Raymarine

• Axiom 2 XL Multifunction Displays with high‑resolution HydroTough touchscreens with search and rescue navigation and built‑in SAR patterns in First Responder Mode.
• Cyclone Pro 4ft Marine Radar for precise identification of radar targets of interest.
• YachtSense Ship Control System to replace the existing Powerplex system.

Teledyne FLIR Marine Thermal Cameras

• M364C LR Fixed Mount Thermal Camera for long range thermal detection capabilities in day, night, and low-light environments. 

Teledyne Raymarine Commercial

• SV-ECS Electronic Chart System - this electronic chart system was specifically developed in line with RNLI specifications to incorporate search and rescue patterns, radar overlay, auto-routing, split-screen capabilities, and directional rangefinder integration, whilst remaining compliant to MCA regulations.

The Shannon class is designed to withstand the worst conditions, and this new system fit out took time to design and install, but the process was completed in April 2026.   

Following the successful sea trials on ON1333, Teledyne Raymarine will now be moving forwards to initiate the full refit campaign for the Shannon class and are expecting for all vessels to be completed by autumn 2029.

The integration of Raymarine navigation and digital switching systems into the RNLI’s lifeboats supports their long‑term fleet strategy to keep vessels future‑fit for changing coastal demands. See how this approach extends across the programme in our RNLI Atlantic 85 refit case study.