USCG Search and Rescue Controller Practice Exam

The towing capacity of the 45-foot Response Boat-Medium (RBM) is indeed 125 tons. This figure is a result of the vessel's design and intended use for search and rescue operations. The 45' RBM is specifically engineered to perform towing missions along with other capabilities such as coxswain operations, law enforcement, and environmental protection.

Towing capacity is crucial for the effective performance of the RBM, allowing it to rescue larger vessels in distress or assist vessels that are unable to navigate on their own. The maximum towing capacity is determined based on several factors including the vessel's structural integrity, stability, and power. In this case, the 125 tons capacity indicates that the 45' RBM has been properly assessed and tested to safely handle towing operations of vessels that weigh up to this amount under appropriate conditions.

This is important for search-and-rescue controllers to understand as it informs their operational decisions during missions. Knowing the towing limits ensures that the RBM is not overloaded, which could compromise safety and the success of the mission. Therefore, the correct figure of 125 tons is a key aspect of the capabilities of the 45-foot RBM in effective search and rescue scenarios.