(AMELIA, La.) — Conrad Shipyard has delivered the first yard, repair, berthing, messing (YRBM) vessel to the U.S. Navy, marking a milestone in the shipyard’s longstanding history. The delivery took place Friday at Conrad’s shipyard in Amelia, La., where the final inspection by key Navy officials took place.
YRBM-57, the first in its class, was designed and constructed by Conrad Shipyard, featuring a new and innovative design tailored to meet the Navy’s operational needs. The vessel recently completed its acceptance trials during the challenging conditions of Hurricane Francine, proving its resilience and readiness for duty.
The delivered YRBM is part of a larger contract with seven more vessels currently under construction. On Wednesday, Navy officials visited Conrad’s shipyard in Amelia where construction is taking place and participated in a hull-plate signing to commemorate the construction of YRBM-61 and YRBM-62.
Reflecting on this, Rear Adm. Kevin Smith said the Navy is “really excited to recognize Conrad as a new member of the Navy shipbuilding team and their outstanding performance on YRBM-57, a much-needed berthing barge which will greatly improve sailor quality of service.” The vessel will be stationed at its initial home port in Japan, where it will serve to enhance naval operations in the region.
“We are honored to deliver this first YRBM to the U.S. Navy,” said Johnny Conrad, CEO of Conrad Shipyard. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire workforce. This vessel will play a critical role in supporting U.S. Navy troops, and we are proud to be a part of that mission.”
– Conrad Shipyard
