ANACORTES, Wash.
- The first-of-class Oceanographic Research Vessel R/V Neil Armstrong (AGOR 27),
successfully completed Acceptance Trials August 7 the Navy reported today.
Neil
Armstrong is a modern mono-hull research vessel based on commercial design,
capable of integrated, interdisciplinary, general purpose oceanographic
research in coastal and deep ocean areas.
The Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) found the ship to be
well-built and inspection-ready. The
trials evaluated the ship’s major systems and equipment to include
demonstrations of the ship’s main propulsion system, dynamic positioning system,
navigation, cranes and winches, and communication systems.
“These trials are the final major milestone prior to delivering Neil Armstrong,” said Mike Kosar, program manager for the Support Ships, Boats and
Craft office within the Program Executive Office, Ships. “Neil Armstrong performed very well during these trials,
especially for a first of class vessel. The results of these tests and the
outstanding fit, finish and quality of the vessel, stand as a testament to the
preparation and effort of our entire shipbuilding team. It reflects the
exceptionalism of AGOR 27’s namesake, Neil Armstrong.”
Acceptance trials represent the cumulative efforts following a series
of in-port and underway inspections conducted jointly by the AGOR Program
Office, SUPSHIP, and builder Dakota Creek Industries throughout the
construction, test and trials process. The trials are the last significant
shipbuilding milestone before delivery of the ship to the Navy, expected to
occur this fall.
Neil
Armstrong Class AGORS are 238 feet long and incorporate the latest
technologies, including high-efficiency diesel engines, emissions controls for
stack gasses, and new information technology tools both for monitoring
shipboard systems and for communicating with the world. These ships will
provide scientists with the tools and capabilities to support ongoing research
including in the Atlantic, western Pacific and Indian Ocean regions across a
wide variety of missions.
Neil
Armstrong will be capable of assisting with integrated, interdisciplinary,
general purpose oceanographic research in coastal and deep ocean areas. The
ship will be operated by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution under a
charter party agreement with Office of Naval Research (ONR). The vessel will
operate with a crew of 20 with accommodations for 24 scientists.
As one of the Defense Department'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. Delivering high-quality war fighting assets - while balancing affordability and capability - is key to supporting the Navy’s Maritime Strategy.