USCG commissions 19th FRC
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has commissioned its 19th fast response cutter (FRC), USCGC Rollin Fritch, it announced on 21 November.
The 154ft FRC is designed to patrol close to shore, executing missions such as fishery patrols, drug and migrant interdiction, national defence and ports, waterways and coastal security.
The FRCs, which are replacing the Island-class 110ft patrol boats, feature advanced C4ISR equipment; improved habitability and seakeeping; and over-the-horizon cutter boat deployment capabilities to reach vessels of interest.
Rollin Fritch is the first FRC based in the USCG Fifth District, which includes inland and coastal waters from North Carolina’s southern border to parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The second FRC to be based in Cape May, the upcoming USCGC Lawrence Lawson, is scheduled to be commissioned in 2017.
The US has ordered 38 out of 58 possible FRCs. Currently 19 cutters are in service.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress]()
Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress
The nuclear-powered vessel, which could carry the Poseidon autonomous torpedo – dubbed the “doomsday missile” – marks another step forward in Russia’s maritime defence push.
-
![Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening]()
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
-
![US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship]()
US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship
NAVSEA plans to select up to three suppliers for the concept design phase of the programme in Q2 FY2026.
-
![Advances in USV technology help develop tomorrow’s hybrid fleet]()
Advances in USV technology help develop tomorrow’s hybrid fleet
As services like the Royal Navy and US Navy aim to develop hybrid fleets to reduce reliance on and dangers to crewed vessels, L3Harris, Metal Shark and Red Cat step forward.
