What is the only intermediate weapon authorized to be carried on the equipment belt?

The only intermediate weapon authorized to be carried on the equipment belt is the expandable baton. This tool is designed to assist officers in achieving compliance and maintaining control during confrontations while minimizing the risk of serious injury to both the officer and the subject. It is compact and can be easily carried on a belt, allowing for quick access when needed.

The expandable baton is also preferred due to its versatility and effectiveness in a range of non-lethal situations. It can be extended with a simple motion, providing an immediate response to threats without the need to resort to lethal force. Training in its use is provided to ensure that boarding team members employ it appropriately and within the guidelines established for use of force.

Other weapons, such as firearms and electrical stun devices, are either not categorized as intermediate weapons or are not authorized for belt carry due to safety and accessibility considerations. The ASP baton is a specific brand of expandable baton but does not denote a different category of weapon. Thus, the designation of the expandable baton as the authorized item reflects the Coast Guard's emphasis on employing force judiciously and safely.