According to the Code of Federal Regulations, which of the following statements is correct regarding the steering gear on a vessel contracted for after June 9, 1995?

Correct Answer: Option B — A separate auxiliary means of steering is not required where the main gear is of the dual power hydraulic type, having two independent pumps and connections.

Per 46 CFR standards for modern vessels, a separate independent auxiliary steering gear is not required if the main steering gear comprises two identical, independent power-actuating systems (dual-power hydraulic units with separate pumps and piping), each capable of meeting regulatory rudder performance criteria.