HISTORY OF SEA SCOUT SHIP 243, BSA

65PB721 as delivered by SwiftShips
What SEAHORSE looked like in military trim

During her military career, SEAHORSE was also used as a radar system test bed. This program required reducing the amount of surface area that could reflect a radar signal. To this end, the upper turret was removed and an alternate mast fitted. The solid railing which replaced the wire rope and stanchion rail was installed about the same time. The 50 caliber machine gun mounts were covered with a cone shaped cover fitted with radar absorbing mat.

All surfaces that could reflect a radar signal were covered with a material to absorb radar waves. The pilothouse glass was fitted with removable mesh covers to further reduce the radar characteristics.

As with all military hardware that is no longer needed by the United States Government, the vessel was de-militarized prior to disposal. All of the radar absorbing material was removed, along with the remaining restricted material.

When Ship 243 acquired SEAHORSE, she was in rough condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. A fire had occurred in the engine room which destroyed both the main wiring to the control system and electrical connections to the ship's generator.

In addition, the glue that had secured the radar absorbing material remained. The glue was resistant to most solvents, requiring manual removal. And after sitting unused for some time, she needed a good cleaning and housekeeping.

Several thousand man-hours have been invested in adapting the vessel to the unique needs of a Sea Scout Ship, including the addition of 4 additional bunks, provisions to add a second generator, additional galley facilities, and Coast Guard approved safety equipment.

SEAHORSE proudly returned to the open waters, flying Sea Scout colors and maritime signal flags on Saturday, June 10, 2000.