New Coast Guard Rescue Vessel Built By Textron Marine Successfully Completes First Test

The newest addition to the U.S.

Coast Guard fleet, a 47-foot rescue vessel designed and built by Textron Marine Systems (TMS), successfully righted itself in 5.3 seconds during its first test, conducted recently at the Textron shipyard in New Orleans. This patrol and rescue boat has the capability to roll over 360 degrees and self-right within 30 seconds.

"This prototype represents many technological innovations," said Textron Marine Systems president John J. Kelly. "The rugged aluminum hull is not only very strong, it is lightweight and efficient. It can withstand maximum winds of hurricane force, and this boat, which is capable of speeds in excess of 25 knots, is twice as fast as the existing steel hull 44-foot Coast Guard rescue vessel.

"Besides having the capability of a complete rollover, the boat can pitch-pole or lunge bow first, flipping end over end 360 degrees into the swells, and self-right in less than 30 seconds. The two-person operating crew is housed inside an enclosed bridge for added safety and better visibility. The 44-foot lifeboat which it replaced has an open bridge with its crew strapped in place," he continued.

The motor lifeboat was delivered in mid-August to the Coast Guard National Motor Lifeboat training school in Ilwaco, Wash.

The contract award totals over $2 million for the design and production of the motor lifeboat prototype, and a five-boat option totaling over $4.5 million. The success of this 47- foot rescue boat program will lead to the eventual procurement of 100 of these craft by the Coast Guard.

Recently, Textron Marine Systems was selected to provide highspeed rescue fireboats for the New York City Fire Department.

Textron Marine Systems, a Division of Textron Inc., is based in eastern New Orleans and employs approximately 800 people. The company produces high-technology marine craft for both commercial and military applications.

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Maritime Reporter Magazine, page 23, Sep 1990

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Maritime Reporter

First published in 1881 Maritime Reporter is the world's largest audited circulation publication serving the global maritime industry.