Austal launched the recently christened USNS Brunswick (JHSV 6) at its manufacturing facility in Mobile, Ala.
With the 338-foot Joint High Speed Vessel entering the water for the first time, the ship will undergo final outfitting and testing before sea trials and delivery to the U.S. Navy later this year. USNS Brunswick is the sixth JHSV Austal has launched as part of a $1.6 billion 10-ship block buy contract.
The JHSV provides the U.S. Department of Defense a multi-use platform, capable of supporting rapid intra-theater deployment of personnel, equipment and supplies. The JHSV transports medium-size operational units with their vehicles, or can be reconfigured as a troop transport for an infantry battalion, allowing units to transit operational distances while maintaining unit integrity. The vessel, with an average speed of 35 knots, also supports military logistics, sustainment and humanitarian relief operations. With its CH-53-capable flight deck, the JHSV supports helicopter operations while the slewing vehicle ramp on the aft starboard quarter enables the use of austere piers and quay walls, common in developing countries. A shallow draft (under 4.6 meters) further enhances theater port access.
“The successful launch of JHSV 6 further supports the level of maturity this program has reached,” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “The credit for accomplishing this major milestone belongs to Austal’s team of talented shipbuilders in cooperation with the support provided by the other members of the Austal launch team including BAE Systems, Berard Transportation and our U.S. Navy client.”
Three JHSVs and seven Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) are currently under construction in Austal’s Mobile, Ala. shipyard. USNS Trenton (JHSV 5) recently sailed away from Mobile on her way to Pensacola Naval Air Station and the future USS Jackson (LCS 6) is preparing for acceptance sea trials later this summer.