Bollinger to build up to 34 vessels for US Coast Guard

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has selected Bollinger Shipyards to design and construct up to 34 new fast response cutter (FRC) vessels.

The new generation of patrol boats will belong to the Sentinel Class and will replace the Coast Guard’s present Island-class of cutters which Bollinger built almost 25 years ago. Bollinger CEO and Chairman of the Board, Donald “Boysie” Bollinger said he was pleased to have won the contract. “It will mean so much for our employees,” he said. Mr Bollinger went on to say that the program, which is expected to last for approximately ten years for all 34 boats, would provide employment for approximately 500 people at Bollinger Shipyards. The Bollinger design for the craft is based on a parent craft concept using a modern hull form that was originally developed by Damen Shipyards in the Netherlands. “We have had an excellent relationship with Damen for the last ten years.” said Mr Bollinger. “We are currently completing another contract for the USCG, Marine Protector Class Patrol Boats, with the 75th patrol boat being delivered next year. That hull design was also based on a successful Damen design.” The new vessels will measure 46.7 metres by 7.7 metres by 2.6 metres and will be powered by two TIER II diesel engines rated at 4,295kW. The vessel will accommodate a crew of 22 for up to five days at sea. The cutter’s missions will include search and rescue, drug and illegal migrant interdiction, homeland security and maritime defence.
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