US Navy launches the fourth YT 808-class harbor tugboats.

According to information published by the Facebook account of the Naval Sea Systems Command on May 17, 2021, Yard Tug (YT) 811 was successfully launched at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI), May 8. YT 811 is the Navy's fourth YT 808 Class harbor tugboat with a total of six under contract with DCI. Acceptance trials for YT 811 are planned for late summer followed by delivery to Naval Base Kitsap, Bremerton Annex.
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U.S. Navy Yard Tug (YT) 811 harbor tugboat (Picture source: Facebook account of Naval Sea Systems Command)

Based on the Valiant class (YT-802) of US Navy Yard tugboats, the YT-808 will be the first of four updated variations built by Dakota Creek Industries. Designed by Robert Allan Ltd., these 90 foot tugs will be used by the US Navy to perform ship-handling duties for the full range of US Navy surface warships, barges and submarines.

With an updated deck house, new EPA Tier IV engines and a new fendering system, these Tugs will have a free running speed of 12 knots minimum and a Bollard Pull of 40 short tons minimum. Construction on these tugs is planned to commence early in 2019.

A tugboat or tug is a marine vessel that manoeuvres other vessels by pushing or pulling them, with direct contact or a tow line. These boats typically tug ships that cannot move well on their own, such as those in crowded harbours or narrow canals, or those that cannot move at all, such as barges, disabled ships, log rafts, or oil platforms.

They are powerful and durable for their size. Some are ocean-going, some are icebreakers or salvage tugs. Early models had steam engines, and modern ones have diesel engines. Many have deluge guns, which help in firefighting, especially in harbours.