Introduced to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in 1995, the all-weather Severn Class Lifeboat is the largest in the fleet, with a range of 250 nautical miles and a top speed of 25 knots. It carries a powered Y Class inflatable boat that can be launched and recovered by a lightweight crane to enable rescues close to shore. The Severn-class boats have enclosed propellers, so as to avoid damaging them if the boat runs aground. Another feature is the bow thrusters for improved maneuverability. There are currently 46 Severn Class lifeboats in service with the RNLI.
Airfix's new kit of the Severn Class Lifeboat includes full detail of the outside deck, hull, and fittings along with a detailed interior, which can be seen via the removable cabin roof. Decals are included to model any one of the currently operational RNLI Severn Class lifeboats. When finished, the model will measure 23.6cm long.