RB-S Demonstrator Feedback

The United States Coast Guard is providing feedback from the RB-S Demonstrator event, which was completed in April and May 2026. The event involved multiple Coast Guard crews operating four demo boats in various scenarios associated with Coast Guard RB-S missions. The feedback document summarizes observations and follow-on discussions surrounding the event, including comments on hull form, seating, multi-function displays, workstation, console layout, steering, throttle, and other aspects of the demo boats. The document also includes sketches of user-friendly configurations and preferred firing arcs. The feedback is intended to share observations and does not constitute a solicitation, request for proposal, amendment, or commitment by the Government. Some key points from the feedback include: • The innovative hull forms provided improved performance in specific situations, but the improved performance was not envisioned to significantly enhance typical RB-S mission performance. • The option to sit or stand at a seat was useful, and drop down seat pans or seat/console arrangements that allowed this at all seats provided options that improved crew comfort. • Seats that provided lateral movement/shock mitigation were initially liked, but crews expressed concern with potential additional maintenance associated with the lateral movement option. • A stowable table that can be locked in the up or down position was useful, and locating it in the same seating position as the aft MFD worked well. • The ability to dim all light sources, including indicator lights on equipment, improved night operations. • Interior and exterior lights that started at a dim/no light setting when energized and were adjustable to full brightness were useful.