US Coast Guard prepares for FRC commissioning

The US Coast Guard's fast response cutter (FRC) Richard Snyder is preparing for its commissioning at Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

Constructed at Bollinger Shipyards, the 46.9-metre patrol craft is the 27th vessel in the Sentinel-class FRC program.

Based on a Damen design, the FRC has a speed of 28 knots and a stern launch system for the vessel's 7.9-metre cutter boat. 

Each FRC is named for an enlisted coast guardsman who distinguished themself in the line of duty.

FRCs perform various missions including port, waterways and coastal security, defence operations, drug and migrant interdiction, search and rescue and environment protection.