The Legend-class cutters , also known as the National Security Cutter and Maritime Security Cutter Large , are the United States Coast Guard's largest active patrol ship- class . The ship class was developed through the "Integrated Deepwater System Program". These are ocean-going ships for long-term missions. They have a landing deck and two helicopter hangars and a 57 mm cannon. Its electronics are derived from the Aegis system and should enable close cooperation with the United States Navy .
The US Coast Guard calls almost every vessel, regardless of the actual boat type, a "cutter". Originally, sailed cutters were actually used for this purpose . The traditional hull designation has become over time the functional designation "Coast Guard Vehicle". The ship class was developed through the "Integrated Deepwater System Program". The first ship of the class, the Bertholf , has been in service since August 4, 2008. Eight ships are currently in use, with a further three to follow. The Legend-class cutters have replaced the Hamilton-class cutters from the 1960s with the exception of three ships ( Munro , Mellon and Midgett ) .
