Silver Ships, Theodore, Ala., has completed a three-year production run of 32 assault amphibian safety boats (AASBs) for the U.S. Marine Corps under a contract managed with oversight from the U.S. Navy. The aluminum boatbuilder began deliveries in late 2022 and said all vessels were delivered on time or ahead of schedule.
Silver Ships noted in a press release that the 39'x10' AASBs are a customized variant of the company’s Ambar series and are used to support Marine Corps amphibious training exercises involving legacy Amphibious Assault Vehicles and newer Amphibious Combat Vehicles. The boats are configured for safety, rescue and communications support during offshore and nighttime training evolutions.
The contract was initially awarded in fall 2022 to address an urgent operational need tied to amphibious training and search-and-rescue support. Silver Ships adapted an existing Ambar dive boat platform already in use by the Marine Corps in Panama City, Fla., incorporating mission-specific modifications.
Enhancements include a rescue litter, specialized lighting, an infrared camera and additional life rings and lifelines along the inflatable collar to improve safety and operator visibility during recovery operations. The vessels are designed to provide rapid response capability during waterborne training scenarios.
Each boat has a 2' draft for shallow-water access and a full-load displacement of 16,195 lbs. Fuel capacity is 250 gals. Propulsion is provided by twin 250-hp Mercury SeaPro outboards. The hull features a 25-degree deadrise intended to improve ride quality in rougher sea states.
All 32 boats were delivered to a depot in Virginia before being distributed to Marine Corps installations in North Carolina, California and Okinawa, Japan. Additional units are supporting Marine Corps Forces Reserve operations in Tampa, Fla.
