Teledyne Raymarine Announce Strategic Five-Year Partnership with Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)

Fareham, UK - July 23, 2026 - The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), the largest lifeboat service operating around the coast of the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Channel Islands, has announced a strategic five-year partnership with Teledyne brands Raymarine and FLIR Marine, to deliver advanced navigation and thermal imaging technologies into their fleet of vessels; enhancing the charity’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively in life-saving operations at sea.

The integration of Teledyne Raymarine navigation and digital ship control systems into the RNLI’s lifeboats supports their long-term fleet strategy, which aims to ensure its lifeboats are future-fit and able to meet changing coastal demands. Alongside a trial introduction of Teledyne FLIR Marine cameras to enhance situational awareness, the new digital systems will ensure RNLI volunteer crews have the most current and capable equipment to help them save lives at sea.

As part of the agreement, RNLI lifeboats will be equipped with a suite of advanced navigation technologies, including Teledyne Raymarine electronic chart systems (ECS) based on the award-winning  Axiom chartplotters, Quantum radar systems, and YachtSense ship control systems.

The Teledyne Raymarine systems were chosen following extensive feedback from the charity’s volunteer crew members, who gave insights into what was needed from the next generation of onboard systems, and how Teledyne Raymarine could provide the training and support for crew members to get the most from the updated equipment.

Where appropriate, the integration of Teledyne FLIR Marine’s thermal imaging technology will allow crews to detect vessels and people in the water more easily, even in complete darkness or fog. The project represents a major investment in the safety, capability and future resilience of the RNLI’s lifeboat fleet.

The Shannon all-weather lifeboat and the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat will be the first vessels to benefit from the new digital systems, while the E Class operating on the River Thames in London will also receive the upgrades, before the technology is rolled out to the rest of the RNLI fleet. 

‘We are honoured to support the RNLI in their vital mission,’ said Gregoire Outters, President, Teledyne Marine Group. ‘Our technology is designed to perform in the most demanding marine environments, and we are proud that it will play a role in helping RNLI crews save lives at sea.’

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, safety, and future-proof technology. Teledyne Raymarine and Teledyne FLIR Marine will also support the RNLI through events, ongoing technical support, and awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of marine safety.

The RNLI relies on partners and supporters to continue its lifesaving work. This collaboration with Raymarine and FLIR Marine is a powerful example of how technology and innovation will make a real difference to the RNLI mission.