US Coast Guard Cutter commissions Donald Horsley fast response cutter

The US Coast Guard (USCG) has commissioned the 17th fast response cutter (FRC), Donald Horsley, into service in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

It is the fifth one to be stationed in San Juan. Currently, six additional FRCs are in service in Miami and six in Key West, Florida, US.

The FRC, which is the newest generation of USCG patrol cutters, is a replacement for the 110ft-long Island-class cutters developed by Bollinger over the last three decades.

Donald Horsley is 154ft long, has a beam of 25ft and can cruise at a top speed of more than 28k, with endurance for five days.

The cutter has been named in honour of Donald Horsley, who was enlisted in 1942 and during World War II participated in the invasion of southern France and the invasion of Okinawa.

The FRC is incorporated with latest intelligence, command, computers, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment as well as improve habitability and seakeeping.

The cutters are capable of launching and recovering over-the-horizon cutter boats from astern or through side davits.

The vessels are designed to conduct coast guard missions such as waterways, defence readiness, law enforcement and coastal security.

Of the 58 planned FRCs, 38 have already been ordered.

The next FRC is expected to be delivered in the coming month and will also be stationed in San Juan.