Silverback Marine, Tacoma, Wash., has completed sea trials and commissioning of its new OX-series truckable tug, a compact tractor-style vessel designed to bring Z-drive maneuverability and towing capability to operators outside the Subchapter M market.
The tug features a 25'x16' hull with true tractor tug lines, allowing its twin Schottel Z-drives to deliver approximately 14,300 lbs. of bollard pull astern. The design marks a departure from traditional truckable tugs, which typically rely on conventional propeller-and-rudder configurations optimized for pushing rather than towing.
Powered by twin Cummins QSL9 diesel engines, the tug is configured to balance output and fuel efficiency in a small platform. The vessel is equipped with a Wintech 480V three-phase towing winch, along with two additional Wintech line-handling winches.
Silverback said the tug is intended to provide a lower-cost alternative to larger tugs, particularly as operators contend with rising compliance costs, maintenance expenses, and a limited pool of licensed captains. The company noted that, in certain applications, two OX-series tugss could perform the work of a single larger tug while offering greater flexibility.
The tug’s wheelhouse is fitted with a direct-glaze window system designed to provide 360-degree visibility. Features include full-height forward glazing, overhead spotter windows, and seating for additional crew, along with a Norsap helm chair.
In addition to line-haul and ship-assist work, the OX-series is positioned as a training platform for operators transitioning to azimuthing propulsion systems. Its compact size and Z-drive configuration allow it to serve as both a revenue-generating vessel and a training asset, Silverback said in a statement.
The first OX-series tug is slated to operate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, supporting ship assist and barge operations. Silverback noted the design is available with either steel or aluminum hull construction and can be customized to meet specific operator requirements.
