CLEVELAND — The crew of Coast Guard Station Niagara in Youngstown, N.Y., took delivery May 9, 2013 of the station's new 45-foot Response-Boat-Medium.
The RB-M can respond faster than previous boats of similar size with a top speed in excess of 40 knots, has advanced search capability with an installed forward-looking infrared search technology. Additionally, with twin jet propulsion, the vessel is able to respond in shallower water.
"This new boat will enhance our capabilities to perform all of our missions," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Dennis O'Connell, the officer-in-charge of Station Niagara. "We are excited to begin training our crews on the boat, enabling them to better respond to emergencies."
The boat has a deep-V double-chine hull, which provides a balance of performance and stability. The vessel is also self-righting; if it capsizes in rough seas, the boat is designed to right itself.
It can handle heavy seas and waves up to 12 feet and carry up to 24 people.
The RB-M is being added to Station Niagara's current craft complement, consisting of one 33-foot Law Enforcement Special Purpose Craft and one 25-foot Response Boat-Small.
With a top speed of more than 40 knots, the highly capable RB-M allows crews to arrive on scene faster. Station Niagara's crew will continue to use its SPC-LE until the RB-M becomes fully operational and steps have been made to divest the SPC-LE.
The RB-M was built by Marinette Marine in Marinette, Wis.
