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River Patrol Boat (PBR)

The River Patrol Boat (PBR) is designed for high speed riverine patrol operations in contested areas of operations and insertion / extraction of SEAL Team elements.  More than 500 units were built when first introduced in the Vietnam conflict in 1966 although the current inventory is 24 craft.  They can be transported in C-5 aircraft on skids.

The PBR is heavily armed and vital crew areas are protected with ceramic armor.  The weapons loadout on this craft includes both single and twin .50 caliber machine gun mounts, 40mm grenade launchers, M4 mortar 60mm, optional M60 machine guns and small arms.

The hull is reinforced fiberglass with two Jacuzzi type waterjet pumps for propulsion.  The unit can operate in shallow debris filled water.  The craft is highly maneuverable and can turn 180 degrees and reverse course within the distance of its own length while operating at full power.  Engine noise silencing techniques have been incorporated into the design and improved over the years.  The combination of relatively quiet operation and its on board surface search system makes this unit an excellent all-weather picket as well as shall water patrol and interdiction craft.

Main Engines

Two General Motors 6v53N diesel engines.  Each engine develops 215 HP at 2800RPM.  Propulsion is accomplished with two Jacuzzi 14YJ water jet pumps.

Electrical System

24v D.C. provided by two 100A alternators

Pumps

2-each pump, 14", 5-3/4' diameter nozzle

Armaments

Standard

Twin mount .50 cal machine gun, tub-mounted

.50 cal machine gun, stand mounted

MK19 40mm grenade launcher

25mm MK38

Options

40mm/.50 cal machine gun, stand mounted

60mm mortar

M60 machine guns

 

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