Reliance-class

Summary

Description

The Medium Endurance Cutter (WMEC) is a classification of cutters in the U.S. Coast Guard, typically comprising the 270-foot Famous-class and the 210-foot Reliance-class vessels. These cutters operate under the control of the Area Commands, both in the Atlantic and Pacific Areas. The WMEC cutters are designed to be sufficiently accommodated for the crew to live on board, enabling them to conduct patrols that last between 6 to 8 weeks. In addition to the main classes, other ships in the WMEC category include the 282-foot USCGC Alex Haley, the decommissioned USCGC Acushnet, the USCGC Storis, and the USCGC Tamaroa which originally served as a Navy fleet tug. Currently, there are 13 active Famous-class cutters and 14 Reliance-class vessels, with plans to replace them with the Offshore Patrol Cutter as part of the Integrated Deepwater System Program.

Post-World War II saw the Coast Guard utilizing the U.S. Navy hull classification system, with large cutters classified variously as gunboats, destroyer escorts, and seaplane tenders. The Coast Guard adopted its own system in 1965, with these large cutters being designated as High Endurance Cutters (WHEC) and the coastal ones as Medium Endurance Cutters (WMEC).

The Famous-class cutters, with hull numbers WMEC-901 through WMEC-913, entered service in the 1980s, equipped to perform enforcement duties, particularly in the extended 200-mile exclusive economic zone. These cutters incorporated weapons systems from decommissioned Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates as a cost-saving measure, significantly extending their service life into the 2030s.

The Reliance-class cutters, which include hull numbers WMEC-615 to WMEC-630, were launched between 1964 and 1969, intended to replace Prohibition era cutters and were the first major cutter upgrade since World War II. These vessels underwent "Midlife Maintenance Availability" upgrades from 1986 to 1990, which saw modifications to their propulsion, exhaust systems, superstructure, armament, and fire-fighting capabilities. Some of these cutters have since been decommissioned and transferred to other countries' naval services.

Technical specifications