WASHINGTON: US Customs and Border Protection agents have a new tool to stop boats from smuggling drugs, people or other illegal cargo into the country.
On the Potomac Thursday morning, they unveiled their next generation, high-speed coastal interceptor vessel.
With four outboard engines, generating a total 1,400 horsepower, the 41-foot long, 20,000 pound vessel might make smugglers feel a little anxious.
This is the first of 52 coastal interception vessels, under a $48 million DHS contract, replacing a 16-year old fleet near the end of its service life.
CBP Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske said, “Once you see these vessels in action, and you see the skill in which our personnel handle them, you can know that we’re a safer country because of them and because of these.”
The current fleet can go up to about 60 mph, but these new vessels can go up to about 70 mph. CBP marine interdiction agent Ryan Haines said, “We have a longer range, and a faster boat, and it’s more maneuverable and it’s more comfortable to operate.”
Agents say this speed – and new technology with the latest radar and navigation tools – will help them stay ahead of drug cartels and human smuggling operations who’ve invested in bigger and better boats over the years.
Also, shock mitigating seats will give agents longer careers by protecting them from injury when they cruise over choppy waters.
The new vessels will first roll out to high traffic coastal areas where agents find the most illegal cargo: southern California, south Florida, the Gulf Coast and the Caribbean.
But the vessels will also likely be brought up to Washington, from time to time, for security during inaugurations and other high profile events.
