The American Coast Guard is described as an armed service with responsibilities resembling those of a second navy. Britain's Coastguard has a more civilian orientation, so equipment suitable for its work does not automatically meet naval requirements. In the example given, a suspected terrorist vessel would bring the Royal Navy's fisheries squadron into the response. A River-class patrol vessel could then provide an armed presence and carry specialist Royal Marines.
Notable Point · 1:07:41-1:08:50
Why Coastguard roles differ between Britain and the United States
Different Coastguard responsibilities create different equipment and intervention requirements.