MOBILE, Ala. - Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) 6, the
future USNS Brunswick completed Acceptance Trials Oct. 23 the Navy reported
today.
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, or JHSVs.
"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 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.
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