USCG takes delivery of high-speed response boat

The US Coast Guard’s (USCG) Station South Padre Island has successfully completed the qualification and trial process of the newly received 45ft Response Boat Medium (RB-M), which was focused on making the crews accustomed to the boat’s response capabilities.

Replacing the station’s 41ft Utility Boat, the new craft will be added to the Station South Padre Island’s existing assets comprising three 33ft Law Enforcement Special Purpose Class boats.

Incorporating twin diesel engines that are powered by water-jet propulsion, the new RB-M offers a top speed of over 40kt and is claimed to respond more rapidly than its successors of similar size.

The new vessel features advanced infrared search technology, offering improved search capability.

It is claimed to be extremely manoeuvrable, and is well-suited for marine response activities in disasters and law enforcement operations, according to NavalToday.US Congressman Filemon Vela said: "The new boats will be used by the Coast Guard during

Operation Sea Serpent — a multi-agency effort to stop illicit activity along our maritime borders — and will provide a safe and reliablevessel for members of the Coast Guard to conduct their mission."

With a deep-V, double-chine hull that offers a balanced performance and stability, the new boat is capable of dealing with heavy seas and waves up to 12ft.

Operation Sea Serpent has led to seizure of three foreign fishing vessels, in addition to 16 arrests and the recovery of 5,400 yards of illegal long line fishing equipment.