GULF OF MEXICO - The future USNS Carson City (EPF 7) successfully completed its builder's acceptance trials during an underway period in the Gulf of Mexico, May 25-26. Expeditionary Fast Transport class ships (EPFs) are versatile, non-combatant, transport ships that will be used for high-speed mobility and transportation of troops, military vehicles, and equipment in support of a wide variety of missions. (US Navy photo - released). |
|||
“We’re
excited by not only the U.S. Navy’s commitment to this program but
also by the number of diverse missions our delivered EPF ships continue
to execute,” Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle said. “These
ships were designed to be a force multiplier and to bring a unique capability
to the fleet ? they’re doing just that. The possible uses of the
EPF are endless.” The EPF’s large, open-mission deck and large habitability spaces provide the opportunity to conduct a wide range of missions from engagement and humanitarian assistance to disaster relief, and from maritime security support operations, to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The Expeditionary Fast Transport ships are performing valuable missions all over the world. With a draft of only 13 feet and a unique propulsion system, its ability to access austere and degraded ports with minimal external assistance provides an overabundance of options to fleet and combatant commanders. Along with its draft, propulsion system, enormous mission bay and greater-than 40 knot speed, these ships have the potential to support future requirements in special operations, command and control, and medical support operations. Austal USA’s EPF program is strong with seven ships delivered and three more under construction at its headquarters and ship manufacturing facility in Mobile, Ala. “I’m exceptionally proud of the work the Austal team has put into making this program what it is today,” Perciavalle said. “We have a tremendous amount of momentum with the Navy and this program, and we’ll leverage that momentum as we continue to provide highly capable and cost-effective ships to our Great Navy.” |
|||
Austal Awarded Navy Contract For Expeditionary Fast Transport EPF Ships 11 & 12
- Posted On