Yes, modern navy ships are equipped with liferafts as part of their survival equipment. Even though naval vessels are heavily armored and designed for combat, safety regulations still require survival craft in case of fire, flooding, or damage that forces evacuation. Inflatable liferafts allow sailors to abandon ship quickly and safely if the vessel becomes uninhabitable. At Life Raft Professionals, we supply certified rafts for commercial, offshore, and recreational use that follow the same survival principles.
Why Navy Ships Use Liferafts
Liferafts are essential because they provide flotation, shelter, and supplies in an emergency. While lifeboats are mounted on some ships, inflatable liferafts are more practical for naval vessels because they can be stored compactly and deployed rapidly.
Quick Deployment
Liferafts are designed to auto-inflate upon contact with water. On navy ships, they are stored in canisters along the decks for immediate deployment during emergencies.
Capacity and Redundancy
Navy ships carry multiple liferafts to ensure enough capacity for the entire crew. Redundancy is critical in case one raft is damaged during deployment.
Protection and Survival Gear
Military liferafts often include canopies, thermal protection, and signaling devices. These features are similar to SOLAS-approved rafts used in commercial shipping.
Liferafts vs. Lifeboats on Navy Ships
Unlike cruise ships or cargo vessels that rely heavily on rigid lifeboats, navy ships prioritize liferafts for flexibility. Liferafts take up less space, can be deployed under combat conditions, and are easier to replace after training or emergencies.
Similarities to Commercial and Offshore Rafts
The liferafts on navy ships share many features with offshore and commercial liferafts. Both are designed for rapid deployment, long-term flotation, and survival in rough seas. SOLAS-approved commercial rafts, like those from Viking and Survitec, undergo rigorous testing similar to military standards.
Examples From Our Store
Coastal and Offshore Rafts
Our coastal and offshore rafts are ideal for recreational and professional boaters who want compact, reliable survival gear.
Commercial SOLAS-Approved Rafts
For maximum safety, our commercial liferafts meet strict international standards, making them comparable to the rafts used by navies worldwide.
FAQ
Do navy ships carry liferafts?
Yes. Liferafts are part of standard survival gear, ensuring all crew members have evacuation options if the ship is compromised.
How many liferafts does a navy ship carry?
The number depends on the ship’s size and crew, but multiple rafts are carried to provide capacity for everyone on board.
Are navy liferafts different from civilian ones?
They share many similarities with commercial SOLAS rafts but may include military-specific gear such as tactical signaling devices.
Do navy ships also have lifeboats?
Some large naval vessels carry lifeboats, but liferafts are more common due to space efficiency and rapid deployment capability.
Can civilians buy liferafts like the navy uses?
Yes. While military rafts are specialized, SOLAS-approved commercial rafts offer similar durability and safety features for private or commercial vessels.
Conclusion
Navy ships do have liferafts, and for good reason. They provide a reliable way to evacuate crew in emergencies, offering flotation, protection, and survival gear. While military versions are customized, their function mirrors the certified liferafts we provide for recreational, offshore, and commercial operators. Whether you’re running a small boat or a commercial fleet, having the right liferaft on board is essential for safety at sea.