Tatarstan-based Zelenodolsk Shipyard of M. Gorky on August 17, 2011 launched the lead ship of a series of new-generation hydrofoil passenger boats of A145 Project, the shipbuilding firm said.
The A145 Project vessel was designed by St. Petersburg-headquartered Agat Design Bureau LLC.
The propulsion system consists of two VD-525M devices manufactured by Zelenodolsk shipyard. The boat is powered by high-speed diesel engines manufactured by MTU company (Germany).
The A145 Project hydrofoils are designed for transportation of up to 150 passengers with their luggage in the coastal marine area with a speed up to 40 knots at a distance of 200 miles without refueling. They will gradually replace outdated hydrofoils, such as "Kometa", "Kolkhida", "Voskhod" and "Katran," designed and built in the former Soviet Union
The Republic of Tatarstan is funding the construction of two boats, now under construction, through the leasing scheme.
The shipbuilding firm will debut the modern hydrofoil in September 2011 during the X International Investment Forum in Sochi.
JSC Zelenodolsk Shipyard named after M. Gorky, specializes in the construction of warships and hydrofoil passenger boats. The enterprise is managed by Ak Bars Holding.