Preparing the RNLI Atlantic 85 for the Next Generation of Rescue Operations

Since Teledyne Raymarine initiated the SIMS replacement program with the RNLI in October 2025, an early focus has been to support the RNLI’s planned upgrade to the Atlantic 85 (Mk4). 

The Atlantic 85 was introduced into the RNLI fleet in 2005, it is a manoeuvrable RIB with a top speed of 35 knots, making it ideal for rescues close to shore or near cliffs and rocks. The Atlantic 85 has a survivor capacity of 20 and can support and reach survivors in locations inaccessible to the RNLI All Weather Lifeboats. 

The Atlantic 85 RIBs are open to the elements and operate in rough sea states, so the suite of Raymarine equipment needs to be capable and rugged, to operate in arduous environments. 

Whilst the refit of the Atlantic 85 is not planned until autumn 2027, Teldyne Raymarine has been supporting the RNLI with an equipment configuration for the prototype vessel.

Teledyne Raymarine

• Axiom 2 chartplotters  - The latest generation Axiom 2 chartplotter will run the trusted LightHouse operating system. This chartplotter is rugged, HydroTough and IPX6 waterproof, to maintain ease of use while being reliable in the Atlantic 85’s operating conditions. In First Responder Mode, it delivers advanced search and rescue navigation with built‑in SAR patterns to support rapid, accurate on‑scene response.
• Maretron cabling - Maretron cabling throughout the vessel provides reliable connections and sensor integration.

Teledyne FLIR Marine

• FLIR Ocean Scout Pro - The handheld Ocean Scout Pro thermal camera which is operational in day, low light and night conditions. This allows RNLI operators to increase their life saving capability through the benefit of thermal imagery without the need for fixed camera mounting or searchlights.

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 integration of Teledyne Raymarine navigation and digital switching systems into the RNLI’s Atlantic 85 supports the charity’s long‑term fleet strategy to keep its lifeboats future‑fit for changing coastal demands. You can see how this approach is being applied across the wider fleet in our Shannon Class refit case study.