FCB2 experimental lifeboat

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FCB2 (unnamed-class)

General characteristics
Introduced:	approx 2011
Length:	13.6 m
Beam	4.54 m
Draft:	0.75 m
Displacement:	14.6 tons
Construction:	Fibre Reinforced composite
Engines:	2 x 510 hp (380 kW) Caterpillar C9
Propulsion:	2 x Hamilton HJ 362 Waterjets
Speed:	27 knots (50 km/h)
Fuel Capacity:	unknown
Range:	250 miles
Endurance:	unknown
Crew:	5
Capacity:	Self-righting Non self-righting

Fast Carriage Lifeboat 2

The FCB2 (Fast Carriage-Launched Boat) will serve the shores of the UK as a part of the RNLI fleet. The FCB2 prototype class is intended to replace the Mersey class carriage-launched lifeboat.

It is currently undergoing trials.

It is based on a Camarc Pilot vessel hull design with twin water jets, it currently puts out a top speed of approximately 30 knots (56 km/h) but will be rated down to 25-27knots when the final design is put into production.

the FCB2 will use similar SIMS technology to that of the Tamar class lifeboat.

Reports are emerging on the internet, as of late February 2008, that the project will be cancelled due to issues with hull performance and the use of water jets. These are as yet unconfirmed by the RNLI.[1]