The roll out of the latest generation of D class inshore lifeboat, the IB1-type, looks likely to be complete by the end of the year. As soon as a new boat is built for and delivered to Teddington Lifeboat Station, every D class on active service around the UK and RoI will be an IB1-type.

The IB1 has a more powerful engine than its predecessor, giving improved performance and handling, with a higher top speed of 25 knots – and an electric start. A single reinforced nose pod contains all the electronics and equipment, ready and to hand for immediate use, including an enhanced GPS navigation system with integrated plotter. Due to its build materials, the IB1-type D class should also have a longer life and cost less to maintain.

For the boat spotters among our readers, IB1s can be easily distinguished from their predecessors by their numbering – anything from D-600 upwards is an IB1-type D class.