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RB-M: Project Description
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 Response-Boat medium offers a number of opportunities for improvements over the existing fleet of 41’ UTBs in performance, crew efficiency and operational availability.
On June 21, 2006, the Coast Guard awarded the RB-M contract to Marinette Marine Corp., who partnered with Kvichak Marine Industries (KMI). Construction began in July 2007 at KMI in Kent, Washington. The Coast Guard presently has 66 RB-Ms on order with productions facilities in both Green Bay, Wisc. and Kent, Wash. Deliveries are occuring at a rate of approximately one RB-M per month, which is expected to increase to 30 RB-Ms per year in 2010.
Honor Boat Crews
Tested by Coast Guard boat crews, the RB-M's improved design, new ergonomics, and enhanced safety features make boat crews more effective in performing their multiple missions.
The project incorporated the input of the operational commanders in developing a more capable platform. Capabilities needed for homeland security missions significantly influenced the design and will provide improved mission response.
The “Human Systems Engineering” approach to the platform design promotes a user-friendly crew/vessel interface. Comfort, accessibility and intuitive controls collectively contribute to enhanced crew efficiency and improved mission performance.
Embrace Technology
State-of-the-art marine technology makes the RB-M a high performer with waterjet propulsion, an advanced electrical system, and integrated electronics that allow greater control from the pilot house.
Technological and design features will improve search object tracking, water recovery efforts, crew comfort, and maneuvering/ intercept capabilities for defense operations. With the latest developments in integrated navigation and radiotelephony, command and control will be greatly enhanced, as will crew safety.
Deliver Value
By recapitalizing the 41' Utility Boat, the RB-M project yields more benefits for the nation because it delivers the support system as well as the boat. The RB-M is designed to use existing facilities and minimize the learning curve to ensure a quick and smooth transition. Life cycle support is part of the design - not just parts support, but all logistics, including training, maintenance, repair, and future upgrades.