NOV19-02: USS Hampton (SSN 767) Undocks, Completes VRLA Early
From Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO - Portsmouth Naval Shipyard's (PNS) successful undocking of USS Hampton (SSN 767) six days early was followed by the early completion of a Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) battery installation aboard the submarine Nov. 6.
The PNSY Hampton Project Team completed the VRLA battery install in 103 days, marking a significant improvement over the previous best of 122 days aboard USS Boise (SSN 764), effectively returning months of submarine operational availability to the Fleet.
"This has been an extraordinary effort by the mechanics from Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the crew from Hampton," said Project Superintendent Dennis Crowley. "Our Navy needs these submarines back at sea and this team is poised to deliver."
The team's tremendous effort successfully achieved a Submarine Force goal of accomplishing a VRLA battery install during a 120-day Dry-dock Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA).
"It was a great effort by the whole team," said Hampton Commanding Officer, Cmdr. William Houston. "I am extremely proud to be working with such a professional group."
PNS, a field activity of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), provides the U.S. Navy's nuclear powered submarine fleet with quality overhaul work in a safe, timely and affordable manner. This includes a full spectrum of in-house support--from engineering services and production shops, to unique capabilities and facilities, to off-site support - all of which serves the multifaceted assortment of Fleet requirements.
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