RB-M Acquisition Project

History

• New missions for a new boat. The Coast Guard is recapitalizing the capability of the existing multi-mission 41’ Utility Boats (UTB) and a small number of larger, non-standard boats that have replaced 41’ UTBs removed from service. The 41’ UTBs are at the end of their 25-year economic service life and are experiencing escalating maintenance costs and reduced operational availability. The evolution of missions increased the performance requirement to successfully accomplish many missions, including those traditionally associated with Homeland Security. The Coastal Zone Mission Analysis (CZMA) report noted that replacement of the 41’ UTB with the RB-M is required in order to continue to meet Coast Guard mandates and ensure that a gap does not exist in the Coast Guard’s boat capabilities.
• Build a system not a boat. The RB-M was designed for improved performance, crew efficiency and operational availability, making it a true multi-mission platform. It leverages modern technology, including newer hull forms, propulsion systems, fendering systems, and navigation and communications equipment. Therefore the RB-M will be substantially faster than its predecessor and its improved communications and navigation system will give crews greater situational awareness. Secure seating for every crewmember and an environmentally controlled cabin allow the crew to conduct longer missions with less fatigue. Life cycle support is part of the design - not just parts support, but all logistics, including training, maintenance, repair and future upgrades. Technical information will be available electronically and contractor logistics support will be available on an interim basis to fill maintenance gaps until the system is fully integrated into the Coast Guard logistics system.
• Extensive testing and design reduce risk and optimize resources. A 3-dimensional model facilitated eight design reviews, and a full-scale mockup helped designers validate their work and establish a configuration baseline. Six boats will be built and delivered to Coast Guard stations for testing and evaluation under actual operating conditions.