The US Coast Guard has awarded Bremerton-based SAFE Boats International LLC a $2.74 million contract for the delivery of seven over the horizon IV (OTH-IV) cutter boats.
The orders include trailers and familiarization training.
According to the Coast Guard, this order brings the total number of OTH-IVs ordered to 103; the seven under the most recent order are scheduled for delivery starting in early 2019. Two of the cutter boats are planned for the eighth national security cutter, Midgett, and the other five are slated for fast response cutters.
The OTH-IV is the service’s standard cutter boat to prosecute over the horizon missions with two assigned to each national security cutter, and one assigned to each fast response cutter and medium endurance cutter. 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.
Ninety-three OTH-IVs have been delivered. Assignments for the boats include the first seven national security cutters, the first 32 fast response cutters, and other legacy vessels such as medium endurance cutters.