Austal delivers new fast transport vessel

Perth global shipbuilder Austal (ASX: ASB) has delivered its latest expeditionary fast transport ship, the USN Puerto Rico (EPF 11), to the US Navy at a ceremony at its yard in Mobile, Alabama.

In August the vessel was the first of its class to complete integrated sea trials, involving builder’s trials and acceptance trials, in a single voyage.

The 103 metre long Spearhead-class aluminium catamaran provides a high payload capacity, with 10 of the vessels in service with the USN, including seven overseas.

They feature a large flight deck and open mission bay allowing for missions ranging from maritime security to humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

Austal chief executive David Singleton said the vessels provided multi-mission capability to the navy.

He said: “The EPF continues to impress the US Navy and indeed many other navies around the world with the genuine flexibility and operability of the platform.”

Two further EPFs are under construction.

Austal has also delivered 10 Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) for the US Navy, with a further six ordered.

Picture: Austal/EPFs under construction at Mobile

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.