Kongsberg to Supply Propulsion Systems for US Coast Guard Cutter Fleet
Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract from Austal USA to provide propulsion systems for the United States Coast Guard's Offshore Patrol Cutter Heritage Class program. This contract involves the delivery of Kongsberg's Promas propulsion system, which integrates a rudder and controllable pitch propeller to enhance hydrodynamic efficiency and reduce energy consumption. The program aims to replace the Coast Guard's medium endurance cutters with up to 25 new ships. The Offshore Patrol Cutter vessels will be 360 feet long, with a displacement of 3,700 long tons, a maximum speed of 22.2 knots, and a range of 9,050 nautical miles at 14 knots. Kongsberg's systems are expected to deliver efficiency savings of around 6%, extending the vessels' range, which is crucial for longer missions.