Design integrates latest operational data to inform next-generation lifeboat development
The German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) has awarded a contract for the construction of a prototype next-generation search and rescue (SAR) lifeboat intended for operations in the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
Measuring just over 26 metres in length, the new specialised vessel will be developed in line with the DGzRS’s latest operational insights and design requirements. Delivery and entry into service are scheduled for 2028. Following commissioning, the DGzRS will undertake an extensive evaluation programme to assess the vessel’s performance before making a decision on potential series production.
The contract has been placed with SET Schiffbau- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft Tangermünde, with an option already secured for the construction of a sister vessel.
Based on operational experience with the currently serving sea rescue lifeboat, experienced crew members, rescue personnel, and inspectors from the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) have defined the details of the new sea rescue lifeboat type, which features the proven grid-frame aluminium construction . In a comprehensive development process, all hull lines were also optimised in collaboration with the Oldenburg-based engineering firm HB Hunte Engineering.
The new 26.1-meter sea rescue lifeboat will have a delta hull with its widest point at the stern and a sleek bulbous bow. This lengthens the waterline, improves displacement, and reduces spray. Extensive tests on the model have been carried out in the test tank of the Hamburg Ship Model Basin (HSVA), with very good results.
The main deck rises gently towards the bow, without a step. More space on the foredeck and aft of the superstructure facilitates rescue operations and cooperation with helicopters. Another striking innovation is a completely separate treatment area for shipwrecked and injured persons, which can also be accessed separately.
The new vessel will have a permanent crew of nine, with four sea rescuers on watch at any given time. It will not have a living deck, but will feature two double cabins with makeshift berths, as well as a mess hall and galley, for example, for short overnight stays in other ports and while at sea. This leaves plenty of space on board that can be reconfigured.
The bridge deck features an outside helm station for manoeuvring under special conditions and two inside helm stations. Folding, specially designed seats with controls allow the coxswain to steer from the same position while standing or sitting. Special safety glass, side footwell windows, and external cameras providing a continuous, bird’s-eye view ensure optimal all-around visibility. The aft bridge positions (engineer and on-scene coordinator, OSC) are built slightly elevated to give the entire crew the best possible view of the sea.
The daughter boat with an aluminium hull will resemble the new 8.4-meter lifeboat . It will be jet-powered for the first time. Compared to the 8.4-meter class, which is deployed on special trailers, it will also feature a covered exterior helm station and crew safety equipment on the aft deck. Shipwrecked individuals will be rescued directly from the water via a recovery platform at the stern.
Preliminary Specifications
| Sea rescue lifeboat | Daughter boat | |
| length | 26.12 meters | 8.00 meters |
| Width | 6.70 meters | 2.80 meters |
| Depth | 1.70 meters | 0.60 meters |
| displacement | 100 tons | 4.6 tons |
| Performance | 2 x 1,655 hp = 3,310 hp | 425 hp |
| speed | 23 knots | 32 knots |
On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) signed the construction contract for SK 43 with TB 47, including an option for SK 44 with TB 48 (DGzRS internal designations), with SET Schiffbau- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft Tangermünde, a shipyard belonging to the Heinrich Rönner Group. The shipyard impressed with its expertise in aluminum shipbuilding. It has extensive experience in building special-purpose vessels, government vessels, and research vessels for the North and Baltic Seas, as well as Weser, Elbe, and harbor ferries.
Like all the statutory work of the DGzRS, the new lifeboats are financed exclusively through voluntary donations from many people throughout the country, without claiming any state or public funds. Those who wish to support the sea rescuers in a special way can ensure that their name accompanies them on every mission .
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