The Sillinger 820 ALURAID combines a robust aluminium hull with diesel propulsion, fuel flexibility and high electrical output for French Customs operations
French Customs is operating two Sillinger 820 ALURAID rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs), powered by twin OXE300 diesel outboard engines supplied by KENT Marine Equipment, the French distributor for OXE Marine.
Built for high-intensity professional operations, the 8.20 m ALURAID is an unsinkable, self-righting and fully customisable multi-mission vessel. Its robust aluminium deep-V hull and self-draining deck are designed for demanding conditions, while the vessel can be launched and recovered by slipway or davit, including single-point lifting.
The vessel is designed around diesel outboard propulsion, maximising available deck space while keeping the engines accessible for servicing and replacement.
Fuel commonality was a key consideration. The OXE300 runs on EN 590, ASTM D975 and JIS diesel and is compatible with HVO100 and B7, allowing the RHIB to operate on the same fuel as the larger vessels in the fleet without introducing a separate petrol fuel stream.
For extended missions, efficiency and range are critical. Each OXE300 delivers 945 Nm of torque, while 180 A of electrical output provides up to 120 A for navigation, communications and other mission equipment.
The OXE300 also offers 200-hour service intervals and a 1,500-hour warranty, supporting the practical demands of professional fleet operations.
Procurement was another consideration. The OXE300 is available through UGAP, the French public procurement platform, providing French public authorities with an established route to sourcing the engine.
KENT brought the propulsion specification and integration together with Sillinger and OXE Marine, creating a rigid-hulled inflatable boat package built around the operational requirements of French Customs.
