The example you site is just one. There are several example, however, that owe their designs directly to European designs. The Maritime Commission "designed" and built V-4-MA-1 tugs of WW 2, lines came directly off the Zwarte Zee, at the time serving as HMS Zwarte Zee. As well, The V-2 tugs and most if not all of the ARS's, of the USN, as well trace their lines to European lines.The V-4 continued to serve in civilian service after the war, but did not last long due primarily to crewing requirements. Being 190+ ft did not help.The design you have sited, I believe, traces it's origins back to the 1800's when so many were used to tow and push, on the hip, barges. IA huge amount of maritime commerce moved by barge, river, lakes, and ocean. So we are slow to change..........they have served well
