CAPE CHARLES, Va. (AP) — The Coast Guard is celebrating a milestone for its newest fleet of boats.
Officials are highlighting the newest response boat at Coast Guard Station Cape Charles on Friday. It is the 100th boat in a fleet of 180 being delivered to the service.
The 45-foot boats are replacing the aging fleet of boats being used nationwide for more than 25 years.
Officials say the boats have a top speed of 49 miles per hour to get crews to the scene faster and are more maneuverable. They also include a full cabin to protect the crew from the elements.
The multi-mission boats can operate in inshore and inland waterways and open ocean out to 50 nautical miles. Primary missions include search and rescue, coastal security, and marine environmental protection.
