Overview
TAI managed the development of a Torpedo Weapons Retriever and Security Craft in response to a solicitation from the Naval Sea Systems Command. The program had many similarities to the YP tasks. This included all the classical Naval Architecture tasks including evaluation and computation of the stability, sea keeping, station keeping, resistance, hull geometry, selecting and sizing machinery, doing cost-benefit studies, propeller design, and compliance with environmental and all other regulations. The program also required Program Management Support which included creating an integrated master schedule for the program, taking minutes of meeting and implementing action items, assisting the client with all communications, tracking program progress, assisting the client with budgeting and program finances, evaluating and managing program risks, tracking program progress versus expenditures, and coordinating the physical construction at the shipyard. The government provided a generic requirements document which was a performance specification. Once the requirements were identified, an estimate was made with respect to important design features like type, length, weight, and speed. A concept was developed to identify the approach to the design. The degree of the effect of the requirements on the evaluation was estimated by carrying out the initial design evaluation. A concept design was developed with all pertinent calculations for structure, propulsion and powering, electrical load analysis, and system weights to ensure that the vessel design was fundamentally sound. The vessel was a unique and challenging design. The government provided the outer size envelope and restrictions. The government also provided the desired performance parameters. The vessel has a multi-functional role. The government required that a complete contract design be submitted. After analyzing the requirements and objectives, a concept was developed to identify the approach to the design. The design was challenging because the government required more in the craft than the outer envelope comfortably allowed. Reaching a balance between conflicting requirements, a final design was arrived upon. The multi-mission requirement also created challenges. All the systems had to be developed and integrated into a functional platform to a point that the government’s evaluators were convinced that this was a risk-free approach for the government. The design was judged the best value by the Government and awarded to C&G Boat Works & TAI.
Final deliverables for the project were detailed design which includes working drawings, technical calculations, and project management.