The RATV - An Innovative Riparian All-Terrain Launch & Recovery System for Expeditionary Combat Surface Craft Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-052 Topic Title: The RATV - An Innovative Riparian All-Terrain Launch & Recovery System for Expeditionary Combat Surface Craft Proposal No.: N081-052-0133 Firm: SAFE, Inc. 5032 S. Ash Avenue, Ste. 101 Tempe, Arizona 85282-6842 Contact: Brian Goedken Phone: (480) 820-2032 Web Site: http://www.safeinc.us Abstract: Safe insertion and extraction of riparian surface craft is an essential military requirement for the future of riverine warfare. Safe, Inc. has developed the RATV (Riparian All-Terrain Vehicle) - a comprehensive transport, launch, and retrieval system that will reduce Time-On-Site by a factor of four and will greatly expand the operational footprint via enhanced terrain navigation capabilities inherent within the proposed technological architecture. The system is also fully compatible with legacy trailers and tow vehicles to support a gradual cross-over transition. Additionally, initial engineering estimates have verified that the proposed concept will meet military transport requirements for lift capacity and space claim for the MH-47, MH-53, C-130, C-17, and C-5 aircraft as well as roll-on/roll-off for amphibious vehicles (LCAC, LCU). In Phase I, Safe will develop a draft capabilities document (ICD), mature the design concept, verify transportability, and provide a Risk Assessment for the proposed technologies. In Phase I, Safe will also develop the Phase II team framework to fully commercialize this novel system. The RATV's agility, maneuverability, range, flexible transport options, support for legacy systems, and robust launch and recovery device represents the future for Naval riverine combat. Benefits: The RATV will considerably expand the Navy's launch and recovery capabilities for SURCs and other military boats (SOC-R, RHIBs, FP Boats), reducing the exposure time of soldiers when operating in high threat environments. The transport, launch, and recovery system offers a host of new technologies which will enable access to previously unnavigable terrain and site access points. The RATV is also equipped with a range of defensive capabilities that will safeguard soldiers while they are performing their mission. The Launch & Recovery system may have dual use as a market substitute for high-end commercial boat trailers. Return