The Office of Naval Research conceived the Innovative Naval Prototype (INP) program concept in March 2004 with the idea of exploring technologies that could have a game changing impact on the way the Navy operates. The Sea Base Enablers T-Craft INP was one of the four original INP programs proposed. The T-Craft program is a three-phase effort. Phase One, completed in November 2007, consisted of initial concept design and technology exploration. Phase II, scheduled to run through May 2010, will consist of further design and technology development and scale model construction and testing. Finally, Phase III, scheduled to start in mid-2010 and complete within four years, will consist of construction and testing of a full-scale T-Craft prototype demonstrator.
The T-Craft program consists of multiple technology challenges which are all necessary in order to achieve the T-Craft vision. Multi-mode propulsion systems are being developed which will allow the craft to achieve long range, fuel efficient open ocean transit, high speed transit between the sea base and the shore, and amphibious propulsion. Aluminum, titanium, and composites are being investigated as possible hull and structural materials. Variable geometry bow and stern seals and retractable side skirts are under development to allow the vessel to transform to an amphibious craft. Ramp technologies and dynamic positioning systems are necessary to accomplish material transfer at the sea base in high sea states, and advances in automation and human systems integration are required to allow the T-Craft to be operated with a minimal crew. New technologies that will be investigated and/or developed for the program include: catamaran/Surface Effect Ship hull forms, multi-mode propulsion systems (including hybrid electric drive), inflatable bow and stern seals, retractable side skirts, ramp technologies and dynamic positioning systems, lift fan developments, automation, and human systems integration.
The primary warfighter payoff of the T-Craft INP program will be its ability to deliver “feet dry” on the beach four to 10 times the payload of current craft in a vessel which can self deploy from an intermediate support base to the sea base. Currently, similar operations require multiple vessels and longer timelines.