Americas News
U.S. Navy Adds Seven Vessels
The U.S. Navy is adding seven modern newbuilds to its fleet, including an auxiliary general oceanographic research (AGOR) ship that features fuel-efficient diesel electric propulsion systems, the Department of Defense says.
The new ships, which were named last week, also include three joint high speed vessels (JHSV), two littoral combat ships (LCS) and an amphibious transport dock ship.
The AGOR ship, to be named the R/V Sally Ride, will use multi-drive, low voltage diesel electric propulsion systems to maintain efficiency and reduce maintenance and fuel costs.
The Sally Ride is being built by Dakota Creek Industries Inc. in Washington State.
The 338 foot-long JHSVs, which are under construction by Austal USA in Alabama, support a variety of military operations, traveling at an average speed of 35 knots with a capability of operating in shallow-draft ports and waterways.
The two LCSs, being built by Austal USA in Alabama and by Lockheed Martin with Marinette Marine in Wisconsin, will be able to travel at more than 40 knots and will be used in combat operations.
The 684 foot-long amphibious transport dock ship, which will support amphibious assault, special operations, and expeditionary warfare, is being built by Huntington Ingalls Industries in Mississippi and will be able to travel at sustained speeds of more than 22 knots.
The Navy has focused on energy saving measures in recent years as has said it is on course to get half its energy from non-petroleum sources by 2020.
