USCG orders more response boats
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has awarded a contract worth $6 million to Metal Shark Aluminum Boats for 15 Response Boats-Small II (RB-S IIs) and associated equipment.
This new order brings the total number of RB-S IIs ordered to 279. To date 250 RB-S IIs have been delivered.
Powered by twin 225hp (168kW) outboard motors, the 29ft RB-S II can travel at a top speed of more than 40 knots.
The boats are designed for deployment close to shore for missions such as search and rescue, law enforcement, port security, environmental response and drug and migrant interdiction. The boat can carry up to 10 persons.
RB-S IIs are gradually replacing the 25ft Defender class RB-S as it reaches the end of its service life.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Canada’s submarine availability under pressure as Chicoutimi is unlikely to return to front-line duties]()
Canada’s submarine availability under pressure as Chicoutimi is unlikely to return to front-line duties
HMCS Victoria and HMCS Windsor could return from their current deep maintenance, but unconfirmed operational timelines leave questions over patrol capacity before the first CPSP arrives.
-
![Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market]()
Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market
Poland is reshaping its naval capabilities through investments in surface and undersea fleets, with further procurement opportunities expected into the 2030s.
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
