Category Archives: patrol craft

“CMF’s Combined Task Force 150 and U.S. Coast Guard Integration Key in Recent Drug Seizure” –NAVCENT

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250323-N-NO146-1001 ARABIAN SEA (March 23, 2025) Illegal narcotics seized from a stateless vessel are stacked on the deck of the U.S. Coast Guard Sentinel-class fast response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145) in the Arabian Sea. (Photo by U.S. Coast Guard) Photo is from the O-1 deck, forward of the bridge, looking forward. 

Below is a news release from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs, March 24, 2025

MANAMA, Bahrain —

A U.S. Coast Guard fast-response cutter, working in direct support of New Zealand-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), seized 260 kilograms of illegal narcotics from a vessel in the Arabian Sea, March 19.

The Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell’s (WPC-1145) boarding team discovered and seized 200kg of methamphetamine and 60kg of heroin from the vessel. After weighing and documenting the haul, the crew properly disposed of the narcotics.

Royal New Zealand Navy Capt. Dave Barr, CTF 150 deputy commander, said this drug bust is a testament to the tenacity and expert seamanship of the Coastguardsmen on the Emlen Tunnell operating so far off the coast in challenging waters, and the ability to seamlessly integrate with the multinational CTF 150 staff.

“The waters in this area are full of legitimate fishing and trading vessels so it’s important to get this part right and accurately identify those vessels that are likely to be carrying narcotics,” said Barr. “A big part of our mission is to deter smugglers, so that those legitimate operators can continue to navigate freely to carry out their business.”

This interdiction is part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking in international waters and demonstrates the CMF’s continued commitment to safeguarding maritime security against malign non-state actors.

Emlen Tunnell is forward deployed to Bahrain. The fast response cutter is part of a contingent of U.S. Coast Guard ships operating in the region under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships alongside U.S. and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East.

CTF 150 is one of five task forces under CMF, the world’s largest international naval partnership. CTF 150’s mission is to deter and disrupt the ability of non-state actors to move weapons, drugs and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.

Combined Maritime Forces is a 46-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

“Philippine Coast Guard to Receive 40 Patrol Boats from France in $438 Million ODA Project” –USNI

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A Suriname Coast Guard FPB 98 patrol boat (Credit: OCEA)

The US Naval Institute News Service reports,

France is set to provide 40 patrol vessels and logistical support to the Philippine Coast Guard following the approval of a $438 million aid project to enhance Manila’s maritime security capabilities across the country’s waters.

The French official development assistance-funded acquisition project of 40 Fast Response Crafts, approved during Tuesday’s National Economic and Development Authority Board meeting, will effectively quadruple the Philippine Coast Guard’s fleet.

The craft are reported to be 30-35 meters in length. 20 are to be built in France and 20 in the Philippines.

There are no specifications for the patrol boats included in the article, but it does state that OCEA is expected be the French shipbuilder that will provide the design and build the first 20. OCEA has already committed to building a shipyard in the Philippines and has previously built vessels for the Philippine Coast Guard (here and here).

There is a good chance the new patrol boats will look a lot like the one pictured above, a class built for Suriname, Algeria, Ukraine, and French Customs. They are powered by two 3,660 HP Caterpillar diesels using waterjets. Specs on the Algerian boats as follows.

  • Displacement: 100 tons
  • Length: 31.8 meters (104’4″)
  • Beam: 6.3 meters (20’8″)
  • Draft: 1.2 meters (3’11”)
  • Speed: 30 knots
  • Range: 900 nmi @ 14 knots
  • Crew: 13

These will be faster and more maneuverable than most of the China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels that contest Philippines sovereignty in the South China Sea. If they can stand up against Chinese water cannon, they should be a valuable asset.

The Philippine Coast Guard is still not arming even their largest vessels with anything larger than .50 caliber.

“U.S. Coast Guard Cutters return home after successful Central American deployment” –D11 News Release

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USCGC Forrest Rednour (WPC 1129) and Blackfin (WPB 87317) in Costa Rica

Below is a District 11 news release. Did an earlier post on this unusual deployment.

The 800 operational hours claimed for each vessel works out to 33.3 operational days out of 49 deployed, so I presume that means about 16 days in transit, there and back.

The Mexican Navy vessel mentioned, ARM PALENQUE, the third of ten Tenochtitlan-class patrol vessels, looks a lot like a Webber class Fast Response Cutter. It is also a Damen design, but a bit smaller (a Stan Patrol 4207 vs 4708 for the FRC). Damen has been very successful with this design. More than 50 have been built for more than a dozen agencies. (USCGC Blackfin and the other Marine Protector class patrol boats are also based on a Damen design.)

Mexican Navy ARM Palenque (PC-333) at launching March 2014. Credit Secrtaria de Marina.

June 10, 2024

U.S. Coast Guard Cutters return home after successful Central American deployment

SAN PEDRO, Calif. — U.S. Coast Guard cutters Forrest Rednour and Blackfin have returned to their homeports after a 49-day deployment in Central America, where they played a crucial role in multiple operations.

During this period, both cutters demonstrated outstanding readiness and operational capability, significantly contributing to international cooperation, search and rescue missions, and efforts to combat criminal activities. This deployment was part of a broader strategy to enhance regional security and strengthen partnerships. Throughout the mission, Forrest Rednour covered over 8,200 miles and logged 800 operational hours, while Blackfin covered over 8,300 miles and also logged 800 operational hours.

“The amount of effort and commitment from both crews during this 49-day deployment was remarkable,” said Rear Adm. Andrew Sugimoto, commander, Coast Guard District 11. “Their readiness and professional exchanges provided an invaluable experience to our partner nations and crews. The enthusiasm to lead multiple engagements with several international maritime organizations helped strengthen ties and fortify continued collaboration between all.”

Key Achievements:

Search and Rescue Exercises (SAREX):

  • Manzanillo, Mexico: Blackfin led a successful SAR operation, including helicopter rescue exercises with the Mexican Navy.
  • Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala: Hosted tours and conducted SAR exercises with the Guatemalan Navy, building stronger maritime partnerships.
  • La Union, El Salvador: Rednour led a SAR exercise and joint operations with the Salvadoran Navy, marking the first U.S. vessel visit to this port in two years.

Partnership and Training:

  • Amapala, Honduras: Engaged in discussions and training on maritime law enforcement and security with the Honduran Navy and Merchant Marine.
  • Golfito, Costa Rica: Shared knowledge on maritime governance with the Costa Rican Coast Guard, enhancing mutual understanding.
  • Rodman, Panama: Provided damage control and medical evacuation training to Panamanian forces, marking the first U.S.-Panama Coast Guard engagement in over two years.
  • PASSEX with ARM PALENQUE: Forrest Rednour and Blackfin conducted a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the Mexican Navy’s ARM PALENQUE. This included formation steaming, code exercises, and a crew exchange to enhance mutual operational understanding and cooperation.

“This patrol was truly an amazing experience and a testament to the incredible devotion to duty that the crews of the Forrest Rednour and Blackfin have,” said Lt. Kevin Ng, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour. “Both crews adapted and overcame several challenges leading up to and during the patrol, but never took their eyes off the main objective. As a result, the Coast Guard was able to strengthen the valuable relationships that the United States has with our international partners throughout Central America and unify our efforts to address critical maritime security initiatives in the Eastern Pacific. Thank you to crews on a job well done, District 11 and Sector Los Angeles/Long Beach for the coordination, and the families and friends of the crew for all of the support; the success of this historic patrol could not have been accomplished without them all.”

“I could not be prouder of both crews for the incredible amount of hard work they have dedicated to making this historic patrol possible. The success of this Surface Action Group is a testament to the Coast Guard’s ability to overcome dynamic challenges in the completion of unprecedented mission sets. It also signifies the Coast Guard’s steadfast commitment to advancing our vital maritime partnerships in the Eastern Pacific. The international relationships formed and strengthened during this deployment have set the groundwork for future engagements which I look forward to watching,” said Lt. j.g. James Morrison, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Blackfin.

Commissioned in 2018, the Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour is one of the Coast Guard’s Sentinel-class fast response cutters homeported in San Pedro, California. Sentinel-class cutters are 154 feet long and 25 feet wide and have a 353 long-ton displacement. They have a top speed in excess of 28 knots and a range of 2,500 nautical miles. They can hold a crew of up to 24. The namesake of the Forrest Rednour is Petty Officer 2nd Class Forrest O. Rednour, who heroically rescued survivors from the torpedoed USAT (US Army Transport–Chuck) Dorchester during World War II and was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal.

Commissioned in 2000, the USCGC Blackfin is one of the Coast Guard’s Marine Protector-class patrol boats homeported in Santa Barbara, California. Marine Protector-class patrol boats are 87 feet long and 19.5 feet wide and have a 100 long-ton displacement. They have a top speed of 25 knots and a range of 900 nautical miles. They can hold a crew of up to 10. The Blackfin is equipped with advanced electronics and navigation systems for multi-mission operations, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and homeland security. The Blackfin shares the name of the USS Blackfin (SS-322), a submarine that participated in World War II and the Korean War.

“Coasties, Marines and Sailors Awarded for Seizing Millions of Pounds of Explosive Materials in Middle East” –Military.com

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220822-A-KS490-1182 STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Aug. 22, 2022) From the left, U.S. Coast Guard fast response cutters USCGC Glen Harris (WPC 1144), USCGC John Scheuerman (WPC 1146), USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145) and USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147) transit the Strait of Hormuz, Aug. 22. The cutters are forward-deployed to U.S. 5th Fleet to help ensure maritime security and stability across the Middle East. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Noah Martin)

Military.com reports,

“Hundreds of service members earned an award for seizing two million pounds of “explosive precursor material” in the Gulf of Oman last year, according to a citation obtained by Military.com. It is one of the U.S. military’s largest publicly revealed hauls as it works to stifle arms smuggling in the region.”

The award was made to “192 Marines and sailors with the 26th MEU, 342 sailors assigned to the USS Carter Hall” and unreported numbers of additional personnel “aboard the USS Stethem and Coast Guard Cutters Emlen Tunnell, Glen Harris and John Scheuerman…”

This is not the first time PATFORSWA cutters have stopped shipments of explosives.

I had never heard of the Meritorious Team Commendation (MTC). It is a Coast Guard unit award created in 1993 for groups or teams that are not identifiable by OPFAC as a United States Coast Guard unit.

“USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) enters first drydock maintenance in Honolulu” –Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam

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The USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) crew departs Guam for Honolulu on May 13, 2024, marking a significant milestone as the crew prepare for the first drydock maintenance period of approximately four and a half months. Commissioned in 2021, the Myrtle Hazard is the first of three Guam-based Fast Response Cutters to make the transit to Hawaii from Guam, traveling 3,743 miles to undergo this crucial maintenance phase. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer Sara Muir)

Below is a U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam news release (more photos there) that clarifies how Guam based Fast Response Cutters will be maintained. Just to provide a hint of how arduous this was, the distance from their base to Hawaii, 3743 nautical miles, would take 12 days at a 14 knot cruise speed, while the nominal range and endurance of ships of this class is 5 days and 2500 miles. Actually, she departed Guam on May 13 and arrived in Hawaii, May 28, 15 days later, presumably having stopped at least once to refuel and resupply. 

USCGC Myrtle Hazard arrived in Guam in September of 2020. This is her very first drydocking. Just getting to Hawaii required a transit equal to 16.3% of the miles she transited during the previous 42 months.

June 4, 2024

USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) enters first drydock maintenance in Honolulu

SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) crew arrived in Honolulu on May 28, 2024, marking a significant milestone as it enters its first drydock maintenance period of approximately four and a half months. 

Commissioned in 2021, the Myrtle Hazard is the first of three Guam-based Fast Response Cutters (FRCs) to transit to Hawaii from Guam, traveling 3,743 miles to undergo this crucial maintenance phase.

In just the past two years, the Myrtle Hazard crew patrolled a vast 1.9 million square nautical mile area traveling as far south as Australia, accruing over 23,000 nautical miles steamed. The cutter crew enhanced regional maritime security and strengthened international cooperation by participating as the deputy commodore’s platform during a search and rescue exercise phase of Pacific Partnership 2022, the largest multinational humanitarian exercise in the Indo-Pacific. They also operationalized newly signed agreements by conducting historic bilateral boardings with Papua New Guinea, rescued mariners in dangerous sea conditions in the Northern Mariana Islands, and participated in critical operations escorting Department of Defense assets. The drydock maintenance is crucial for maintaining these high standards and ensuring the cutter’s continued ability to perform such missions.

“Throughout the transit east, as we leapfrogged through the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands to reach Hawaii, this crew demonstrated extraordinary resilience and skill. Despite several engineering challenges that tested our capabilities, their steadfast commitment and proficient handling of all casualties ensured our safe and timely arrival for drydock maintenance. I am immensely proud of their dedication and professionalism, which continue to ensure our readiness and effectiveness in fulfilling our missions,” said Lt. Emma Saunders, commanding officer of the USCGC Myrtle Hazard, on her first transit since assuming command.

Why Drydock is Essential

Drydock maintenance is vital for operational readiness, extending the cutter’s service life, and ensuring the safety of its crew. It involves a series of comprehensive inspections and repairs the crew cannot perform while the vessel is waterborne. These include hull preservation, mechanical overhauls, and technological upgrades, all of which are crucial for maintaining the cutter’s peak performance and safety standards.

Logistical Excellence and Risk Management

The logistical operation to transfer the cutter from Guam to Honolulu highlights the strategic planning and risk management necessary for this evolution. By proactively addressing maintenance needs, the team can meet operational commitments without compromising the safety or effectiveness of the fleet.

“Regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping our ships in shape; it’s about ensuring we’re always ready to meet the challenges we face at sea. Working closely with Coast Guard District 14 and our logistics teams, we schedule these critical maintenance periods to keep our missions running smoothly without missing a beat. This careful planning ensures we’re always there where we’re needed most, from safeguarding our shores to ensuring maritime safety and security across the Pacific. It’s a team effort, and every member of Team Guam plays a part in keeping our commitment strong and our presence steady in the waters we protect and the communities we serve.” said Capt. Robert Kistner, emphasizing the critical role of regular maintenance.

Next Steps for Guam-Based FRCs

Following the Myrtle Hazard, the other two Guam-based FRCs, USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) and USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143), will undergo their respective drydock periods. This systematic approach ensures that all vessels maintain their operational capabilities and readiness.

“We are committed to continuous improvement in maintenance practices, which is crucial for fulfilling our mission to protect and secure maritime interests in the Pacific,” said Kistner. “We look forward to Myrtle Hazard’s return this Fall.”

Future Outlook

As Base Guam continues to come online under the command of Cmdr. Dana Hiatt and operators employ the recently established Operational Logistics Command Expeditionary Team (LOG-X) more frequently; the U.S. Coast Guard is exploring enhancements in local maintenance capabilities and infrastructure in the Pacific. This includes potential investments in existing and new purpose-built facilities for Team Guam, which are crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring a ready fleet capable of meeting future challenges.

Myrtle Hazard, the 39th 154-foot Sentinel-class FRC, is named in honor of the first enlisted woman in the U.S. Coast Guard who served as an electrician and radio operator. As part of the Guam-based cutters, it is a cornerstone for the U.S. Coast Guard’s ongoing commitment to the people of Oceania, focusing on maritime safety, security, and stewardship.

-USCG-

About U.S. Coast Guard Team Guam
Comprising over 350 members, this team is focused on maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania. U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, U.S. Coast Guard Base Guam, and their sub-units are staffed by dedicated active-duty, reserve, and civilian personnel. With a significant presence in Guam, Saipan, and the Micronesia sub-region, this integrated team focuses on operations and logistics to support maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania and maintains close ties with local communities.

Force Protection Unit “Coast Guard cutters Sea Dog, Sea Dragon decommissioned in St. Marys, Georgia” –News Release

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Coast Guard members salute during the playing of the national anthem during a decommissioning ceremony for the Coast Guard Cutters Sea Dog and Sea Dragon in St. Marys, Georgia, May 29, 2024. Rear Adm. Douglas M. Schofield, Coast Guard District Seven Commander, presided over the ceremony honoring the years of service the Sea Dog and Sea Dragon and their crews provided to the nation. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Dickinson)

Below is a press release. The two 87 foot patrol boats were assigned to a Force Protection unit for the Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs) based at Kings Bay, GA.

“The Coast Guard cutters Sea Devil (WPB 87368) and Sea Fox (WPB 87374) have relocated from Bangor, Washington, to replace the Sea Dog and Sea Dragon.”

Sea Devil and Sea Fox were assigned to the Force Protection Unit that escorts SSBNs from Bangor, WA. Is that unit being decommissioned, or are they being reequipped? The two WPBs at each unit were not the only boats used by these units.

As I recall these WPBs and their operating costs were paid for by the Navy Department. In any case these decommissionings do not affect normal Coast Guard operations.

These four WPBs were equipped a bit differently from standard Marine Protector class 87 footers, including having a .50 cal. mounted in a remote weapon station on a band stand on the bow.

KEYPORT, Wash. (Aug. 18, 2009) U. S. Coast Guardsmen man the rails as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Fox (WPB 87374) is brought to life at Naval Base Kitsap. (U.S. Navy photo Ray Narimatsu/Released)

Thanks to Paul for bringing this to my attention.

May 29, 2024

PHOTO RELEASE: Coast Guard cutters Sea Dog, Sea Dragon decommissioned in St. Marys, Georgia

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Coast Guard decommissioned the U.S. Coast Guard cutters Sea Dog (WPB 87373) and Sea Dragon (WPB 87367), Wednesday, during a ceremony in St. Marys, Georgia.

Rear Adm. Douglas M. Schofield, Coast Guard District Seven commander, presided over the ceremony honoring the years of service the Sea Dog and Sea Dragon provided to the nation.

The Sea Dog and Sea Dragon were 87-foot marine protector-class cutters assigned to Coast Guard Maritime Force Protection Unit Kings Bay in the Coast Guard’s Seventh District.

Maritime Force Protection Unit Kings Bay is designed to support the Navy’s efforts to provide anti-terrorism and force protection for its Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines and to assist in meeting its Presidential mandates for ballistic weapon security.

The Sea Dragon was commissioned in January 2008 and the Sea Dog was commissioned in July 2009.

“The men and women of the cutters Sea Dog and Sea Dragon, past and present, have exemplified unwavering professionalism and dedication, safeguarding our nation’s waters and supporting critical defense missions,” said Capt. David Vicks, commanding officer of Maritime Force Protection Unit Kings Bay. “I extend my profound gratitude to these courageous crews as we honor their steadfast service.”

Following the decommissioning ceremony, the cutters will be transferred to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.

The Coast Guard cutters Sea Devil (WPB 87368) and Sea Fox (WPB 87374) have relocated from Bangor, Washington, to replace the Sea Dog and Sea Dragon.

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“Today’s patrol boats now tackle different missions across locations” –Workboat

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Today’s Force Protection boats purposely have less horsepower than their predecessors. MetalCraft photo.

WorkBoat reports on four different patrol boats from three different manufacturers, being made for the Navy, Santa Barbara (CA) Harbor Patrol, and the Palm Beach (FL) County Sheriff’s Department.

They are very different boats, but each has interesting characteristics.

Thanks to Eaglespeak for bringing this to my attention.

“Canadian-Led CTF 150 Seize Nearly 2,000kg of Narcotics in Two Interdictions in a Single Day” –Combined Maritime Forces

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Apr 14, 2024
ARABIAN SEA – 240410-N-NO146-1005 ARABIAN SEA (April 10, 2024) Bags of illegal narcotics seized from a vessel are stacked on the deck of the U.S. Coast Guard Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147) in the Arabian Sea, April 10. Clarence Sutphin Jr. was operating under Combined Task Force 150, one of five task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, the largest multinational naval partnership in the world. CTF 150 focuses on maritime security operations outside the Arabian Gulf. Crimson Barracuda counters terrorist and criminal organizations’ use of the high seas to smuggle narcotics, weapons, and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman.

Below is a news release from Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs.

I would note two things about this particular incident. The use of “Canadian space-based intelligence” to cue the cutter’s interdiction, and second, that you can see Long Range Acoustic Devices mounted on the cutter in the photo above. Below is a close-up.

Long Range Acoustic Device.

MANAMA, Bahrain —The Canadian-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 carried out two drug interdictions at sea in a single day as part of Focused Operation Crimson Barracuda in the Arabian Sea, April 10. The two interdictions resulted in the seizure of a combined total of nearly 2,000 kg of drugs.

The Royal Navy’s HMS Lancaster, a Duke-class Type 23 frigate, seized over 800 kg of hashish, 390 kg of methamphetamines and 110 kg of heroine from a stateless dhow in the Arabian Sea. This was the crew’s first day of deployment after completing a crew swap a few weeks before.

“I am exceptionally proud of the entire team in Lancaster executing this interdiction on the first day of our deployment,” said Royal Navy Cmdr. Chris Sharp, HMS Lancaster’s commanding officer. “Complex interdictions in such a challenging environment require true teamwork across the entire ship’s company. This success is shared with our partners in CTF 150 who provided essential support to the operation.”

Then, using Canadian space-based intelligence, the Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147) seized 257 kg of methamphetamines, 92 kg of heroine, 17 kg of amphetamines, 296 kg of hashish, and 15 kg of marijuana from another dhow in the Arabian Sea. After weighing and documenting the hauls, the crew disposed of the narcotics.

Clarence Sutphin Jr is forward deployed to Bahrain as part of a contingent of U.S. Coast Guard ships under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships alongside U.S. and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East.

“These two interdictions have made a significant dent in criminal and terrorist organizations’ ability to use drugs to fund their activities,” said Royal Canadian Navy Capt. Colin Matthews, Commander Combined Task Force 150. “The collaboration of our assets and personnel allowed us to become a precise and highly effective team that not only undermined the efforts of these organizations, but also nearly 2,000 kg of drugs from hitting the streets.”

Crimson Barracuda counters terrorist and criminal organizations’ use of the high seas to smuggle narcotics, weapons, and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman.

CTF 150 is one of five task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, the world’s largest international naval partnership. CTF 150’s mission is to deter and disrupt the ability of non-state actors to move weapons, drugs and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.

Combined Maritime Forces is a 42-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

“BOLLINGER SHIPYARDS DELIVERS US COAST GUARD CUTTER DAVID DUREN (FRC 1156) TO U.S. COAST GUARD” –Bollinger News Release

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USCGC David Duren is the first of three FRCs to be homeported in Astoria, OR

Below is a Bollinger news release.

This delivery is a little more than 16 weeks after the delivery of USCGC Melvin Bell (WPC-1155) on November 16, 2023. There are still nine more on order, and the FY 2025 budget request asks for two more. The Coast Guard has said all 65 on order will be delivered by 2025, but that seems unrealistic. Delivery rates have generally been five per year or less, and it appears there will be only three in 2024. Looks like deliveries will extend into at least 2026.

The next Fast Response Cutter, the future USCGC Florence Finch (WPC-1157) will also go to Astoria and is expected to be delivered June 13, 2024. Sector Columbia River will have to wait a bit for their third FRC since WPC-1158 is expected to go to Kodiak with delivery expected October 24, 2024.

As noted below, deliveries are made at Key West. Typically, it has been about three months from delivery to commissioning of units this class.

LOCKPORT, La., — (March 18, 2024) – Bollinger Shipyards (“Bollinger”) recently delivered the USCGC David Duren to the U.S. Coast Guard in Key West, Florida. This is the 182nd vessel Bollinger has delivered to the U.S. Coast Guard over a 35-year period and the 56th Fast Response Cutter (“FRC”) delivered under the current program.

“We’re incredibly proud to deliver the USCGC David Duren, the first of three Fast Response Cutters to be homeported in Astoria, Oregon,” said Bollinger President & CEO Ben Bordelon. “We’re confident that pound for pound, the quality and capabilities of the FRC platform are unmatched and that this vessel will outperform its mission requirements and expectations in the challenging conditions where it will operate in the Pacific Northwest. Our unique experience building for the Coast Guard is unparalleled and has shown time and time again that we successfully deliver the highest quality vessels on a reliable, aggressive production schedule. We look forward to continuing our historic partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.”

The USCGC David Duren will be the first of three FRCs to be homeported in Sector Columbia River, which is known as “The Protectors of the Pacific Northwest.” The sector is responsible for coastal safety, security, and environmental protection, as well as protecting and securing vital infrastructure, rescuing mariners in peril at sea, enforcing federal law, maintaining navigable waterways, and responding to all hazards impacting the maritime transportation system along the Oregon coast.

As the U.S. Congress continues to debate Fiscal Year 2024 government funding, the future of the Fast Response Cutter Program remains uncertain. While the House Homeland Security Appropriations Bill included funding for four new FRCs, the Senate bill did not include funding for any new vessels. The prospect for a year-long Continuing Resolution (CR) at last year’s funding level introduces a critical level of uncertainty, as funding levels continue to lag behind the meteoric rise in raw material and input costs. The Coast Guard’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget to Congress includes procuring two more FRCs to provide increased Coast Guard presence and engagement with allied and partner countries in the Indo-Pacific region. Last year, Adm. Linda Fagan, the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, said, “The Indo-Pacific is clearly a consequential region for America’s future. The United States Indo-Pacific Strategy identifies an expanded role for the U.S. Coast Guard as a top Administration priority as we seek to ensure a region that is free and open. The U.S. Coast Guard will continue its long history of operational presence in the region with additional cutter patrols and deployable specialized forces.”

Each FRC is named for an enlisted Coast Guard hero who distinguished themselves in the line of duty. Boatswain’s Mate Master Chief David N. Duren was one of the most iconic figures in the history of Coast Guard surfmen. Considered perhaps the finest boat driver in the history of the modern Coast Guard, he is remembered by his shipmates and mentees not only for his expertise in seamanship, but also for his leadership and character. Between 1979 and 1983, Duren deployed on search and rescue cases more frequently than any other officer-in-charge and, in one year, executed over 250 cases. During this tour, Duren received two Coast Guard Medals for exceptional heroism, and the Douglas A. Munro Inspirational Leadership Award. Perhaps more remarkable was the fact that the personnel under his watch at Depoe Bay earned a total of 24 medals and awards.

ABOUT THE FAST RESPONSE CUTTER PLATFORM

The FRC is an operational “game changer,” according to senior Coast Guard officials. FRCs are consistently being deployed in support of the full range of missions within the United States Coast Guard and other branches of our Armed Services due to its exceptional performance, expanded operational reach and capabilities, and ability to transform and adapt to the mission. FRCs have conducted operations as far as the Marshall Islands—a 4,400 nautical mile trip from their homeport. Measuring in at 154 feet, FRCs have a flank speed of 28 knots, state of the art C4ISR suite (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), and stern launch and recovery ramp for a 26-foot, over-the-horizon interceptor cutter boat.

ABOUT BOLLINGER SHIPYARDS

Bollinger Shipyards (www.bollingershipyards.com) has a 78-year as a leading designer and builder of high-performance military patrol boats and salvage vessels, research vessels, ocean-going double hull barges, offshore oil field support vessels, tugboats, rigs, lift boats, inland waterways push boats, barges, and other steel and aluminum products from its new construction shipyards as part of the U. S. industrial base. Bollinger has 13 shipyards, all strategically located throughout Louisiana and Mississippi with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River and the Intracoastal Waterway. Bollinger is the largest vessel repair company in the Gulf of Mexico region.

“U.S. attempts to stop arms smuggling to Yemen with limited resources” –Is the Coast Guard the Answer?

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US Coast Guard / CENTCOM released photo of weapons seized aboard an Iranian dhow on February 15 2024. The seizure included UUV and USV components. The annotations, highlighting possible UUV parts, have been added.

The Washington Post reports,

“The Biden administration is expanding efforts to surveil and intercept Iranian weapons being smuggled to Yemen, where Houthi militants have staged a deadly campaign of violence against commercial shipping that has proved resilient to six weeks of military strikes, said U.S. officials familiar with the matter.

The initiative seeks to map seafaring routes used by Tehran and stop the arms shipments while in transit, an acknowledgment that the Houthis are likely to pose a significant security challenge for the foreseeable future. It is part of a broader strategy that also includes sanctions and diplomatic pressure but faces constraint as essential military resources are in short supply.

This sound, to an old Coastie, a lot like what lead to the creation of Coast Guard Squadron One (ultimately 26 Point class 82-foot patrol boats) and Squadron Three (five to seven High Endurance cutters) during the Vietnam War.

At the very least expect more Coast Guard boarding teams to be operating with the Navy.

The Webber class Fast Response Cutters (FRC) are the weapon of choice here. The Navy never bothers to produce small ships suitable for the interdiction of clandestine coastal shipping, while this has always been a type common in the Coast Guard fleet. Six FRCs are already operating with the 5th Fleet out of Bahrain. They are already intercepting arms smugglers, as well as drug smugglers that finance Iranian proxy movements. The Coast Guard already has 55 FRCs and is procuring at least ten more.

Will we see more cutters assigned to 5th Fleet? They are also short of air assets. Will we see Coast Guard fixed wing aircraft searching the Arabian Sea?