Zelim Debuts Guardian II Fast Rescue Craft With Remote Operation at SMM 2026

Edinburgh-based technology firm Zelim has unveiled Guardian II, its latest fast rescue craft with remote operation capability, at the SMM 2026 trade fair in Hamburg. The seven-metre rescue boat is designed for rapid deployment from a ship in under five minutes and can operate in conditions that conventional manned solutions would find too dangerous. With capacity for up to 15 survivors, the craft incorporates the company's Swift rescue conveyor and intelligent detection software, and is now seeking SOLAS type approval.

 

Details of the Launch

 

Zelim has unveiled a new life-saving craft. It is the latest version of its fast rescue craft. The vessel is named Guardian II. It was launched at the SMM 2026 trade fair. This event is taking place in Hamburg.

The vessel is a custom rescue boat. It is a patented seven-metre design. It builds on the company's earlier craft. It targets the global maritime market. This represents the company's newest offering.

 

The Configurations

 

The vessel offers flexible configurations. Several options are available for buyers. These include a self-righting configuration. A single-point lift option is also offered. Tailored propulsion choices complete the options.

The propulsion options are varied. These include diesel jet inboard propulsion. Jet outboard propulsion is another choice. An electric option is also available. This flexibility suits diverse operational needs.

 

Rapid Deployment Capability

 

The vessel is designed for speed. It can deploy from a ship in under five minutes. This enables rapid response to emergencies. Quick deployment is critical in rescue situations. This capability is central to the design.

The vessel operates in demanding conditions. It can work in challenging maritime conditions. These would be difficult for conventional solutions. Some conditions are too dangerous for manned recovery. The vessel addresses this operational gap.

 

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Capacity and Technology

 

The vessel offers substantial capacity. It can carry up to 15 survivors. This is despite its lightweight design. This capacity suits significant rescue operations. It supports the vessel's life-saving role.

The vessel incorporates advanced technology. It includes the company's Swift rescue conveyor. This is a type-approved rapid rescue system. It also features intelligent detection software. This software optimises search operations.

 

The Remote Operation Focus

 

The vessel emphasises remote operation. It focuses on remote helm operations. Combined with the Swift system, it offers integrated retrieval. This is a person-in-water retrieval system. It can launch and recover the craft unmanned.

This addresses key safety challenges. Company leadership cited several critical issues. These include the inability to launch in some conditions. High crew burden from manual handling is another. Quicker and safer recovery is also needed.

 

Certification and Market Potential

 

The vessel is pursuing certification. Zelim is seeking SOLAS type approval. This confirms compliance with international standards. It covers technical and performance requirements. This is a key step toward wider adoption.

The vessel targets broad market uptake. It suits various maritime industries. These include cruise, offshore and commercial shipping. Coastal rescue and defence are also targets. The company's global presence supports ongoing user support.