Expeditionary
Fast Transport (EPF) 6, the future USNS Brunswick, completed Acceptance
Trials, Oct. 23. The ship, which was constructed by Austal USA, is the
sixth ship of the EPF class. The EPF class ships were formerly known
as Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV). |
"Conducting
Acceptance Trials is a major milestone for the shipyard and the program
office," said Capt. Henry Stevens, Strategic and Theater Sealift
Program manager, Program Executive Office, Ships. "We are very
proud of our contractor and government team's commitment to delivering
affordable, quality ships, and look forward to the delivery of EPF 6
later this year."
The ship's trials included dockside testing to clear the ship for sea
and rigorous at-sea trials, during which the Navy's Board of Inspection
and Survey (INSURV) evaluated and observed the performance of EPF 6's
major systems. Completion of Brunswick's Acceptance Trials signifies
that the ship is ready for delivery to the fleet in the near future.
EPFs are versatile, non-combatant, transport ships that will be used
for fast intra-theater transportation of troops, military vehicles,
and equipment. EPF is designed to commercial standards, with limited
modifications for military use. The vessel is capable of transporting
600 short tons 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots,
and can operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, interfacing with
roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, and on/off-loading vehicles,
such as a combat-loaded Abrams Main Battle Tank. Other joint requirements
include an aviation flight deck to support day and night aircraft launch
and recovery operations. EPF 6 will have airline style seating for 312
embarked forces, with fixed berthing for 104.
As one of the Department of Defense's largest acquisition organizations,
PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement
of all destroyers, amphibious ships, special mission and support ships,
and special warfare craft.
|
