Posted by: Southsider2k12 Sep 7 2012, 12:31 PM
http://www.uscgnews.com/go/doc/4007/1538927/PHOTOs-Michigan-City-Coast-Guard-station-accepts-new-more-capable-response-boat
QUOTE
Crewmembers from Coast Guard Station Michigan City, Ind., get underway in Trail Creek Channel, Michigan City, in the new 45-foot Response Boat-Medium that was delivered to them, Sept. 6, 2012.
The 45-foot RB-M will replace the station's 47-foot Motor Life Boat as soon as crewmembers complete qualifications aboard the new response platform.
U.S. Coast Guard photo, courtesy Station Michigan City
MILWAUKEE — The crew of Coast Guard Station Michigan City, Ind., took delivery Thursday of the station’s new 45-foot Response Boat-Medium, built by Marinette Marine, of Manitowoc, Wis.
Media note: The station crew will now begin getting familiar with the operation of the new boat and will promote an opportunity to host media and conduct ride-alongs and interviews at a later date.
The RB-M can respond faster than previous boats of similar size with a top speed in excess of 40 knots and 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.
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 Michigan City’s current craft complement, consisting of one 47- foot Motor Life Boat and one 25-foot Response Boat-Small.
Station Michigan City’s crew will continue to use its MLB until the RB-M becomes fully operational and steps have been made to transfer the MLB to another unit.