Marine Resources
OAM vessel crews work in conjunction DHS, DOD, and other law enforcement entities to accomplish the homeland security mission. These crews are extensively trained in maritime detection, pursuit, and high-risk boardings. They often work with a limited number of personnel, during conditions conducive to smuggling, to detect and interdict vessels carrying goods and people illegally crossing the United States border.
Marine Interdiction Agents are assisted by OAM, USCG, DEA, and state operated aircraft, and often utilize officers from other agencies who must be specially trained by OAM in maritime law enforcement tactics and safety. Air and Marine employs approximately 350 Marine Interdiction Agents throughout the nation who operate more than 300 vessels, including three types of interceptor vessels: the 39' Midnight Express, 38' SAFE Boat, and 33' SAFE Boat.
39' Midnight Express Interceptor
The 39' Midnight Express has been in service with OAM and its preceding agencies for over 10 years. It is 39 feet long, has an endurance of 10 hours, range of 400 nautical miles, speed of 55 knots, and a maximum gross weight of 13,600 pounds. It's horsepower varies from 900 to 1200, depending on the model.
The aging fleet of Midnight Expresses is due to be replaced in 2012 by a vessel manufactured by Invincible Boat Company of Opa Locka, Florida.
38' SAFE Boat Interceptor
The 38' Secure All-around Flotation Equipped (SAFE) Boat came into CBP service as a law enforcement interceptor in 2008. It is 38 feet long, has an endurance of 4–6 hours, range of 400 nautical miles, speed of 52 knots, and maximum gross weight of 18,000 pounds. It has 1200 horsepower.
SAFE Boats have marine-grade aluminum hulls and polyethylene closed cell foam collars. This characteristic provides the stability and the buoyancy of a ridged hull inflatable, with a high factor of durability and safety. The protective cabin area of the SAFE Boat has heat and air to protect the crews from the elements.
33' SAFE Boat Interceptor
The USCG and CBP awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract to SAFE Boats International of Port Orchard, Washington in 2006 to purchase 33-foot SAFE Boats. CBP purchased several of these boats for use as law enforcement interceptors. It is 33 feet long, has an endurance of 4–6 hours, range of 300 nautical miles, speed of 50 knots, and maximum gross weight of 13,500 pounds. It's horsepower varies from 825 to 900, depending on the model.
Read more about this topic: Office Of CBP Air And Marine
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