US Coast Guard orders six over the horizon cutter boats from Safe Boats

The US Coast Guard has awarded Safe Boats International a contract worth approximately $2.31 million for the delivery of six over the horizon IV (OTH-IV) cutter boats.

The latest award brings the total number of OTH-IVs ordered to 96.

The six OTH-IVs under the most recent order are scheduled for delivery later this year and will be deployed on board 210-foot and 270-foot medium endurance cutters.

The OTH-IVs deploy from their cutters to deliver boarding teams to vessels of interest during search and rescue; law enforcement; ports, waterways and coastal security; and defense readiness missions. They are 26 feet long and have a top speed of 40 knots. Compared to earlier models, the boats feature increased cargo space and seating, higher speeds, and compatibility with both stern and side-davit launch and recovery systems.

Seventy-eight OTH-IVs have been delivered, including boats for the first seven national security cutters and the first 28 fast response cutters.