The JHSV is the Department of Defense’s next generation multi-use platform, which will be operated jointly by both the United States Army and Navy. The 338-foot vessel will be capable of transporting troops and their equipment, supporting humanitarian relief efforts, operating in shallow waters and reaching speeds in excess of 35 knots fully loaded thanks to its four MTU Series 8000 engines.
Austal USA was named as Prime Contractor for the JHSV in November 2008. The contract includes options for nine additional vessels, totalling 36 20V 8000 M71L engines, expected to be exercised between 2009 and 2013.
The aluminum catamaran design of the JHSV will be similar to that of the Austal-built fast ferries for Hawaii Superferry, also powered by MTU Series 8000 engines. The excellent performance of the Series 8000 engine coupled with MTU’s long-standing relationship with Austal USA resulted in the selection of MTU for this high profile project — the largest in Austal history.
Delivering up to 9.1 MW of continuous power, MTU’s Series 8000 engine has set the standard for high speed marine diesel engines with the world’s highest power to weight ratio in its power range. Its exceptional reliability and fuel efficiency has made the MTU Series 8000 the engine of choice for many of the world’s leading navies and high-speed ferry operators. The 416-foot Littoral Combat Ship ‘Independence’, which was built by Austal USA for the U.S. Navy, is among the military vessels powered by MTU Series 8000 engines.
At the heart of the Series 8000 success story is proven performance coupled with state of the art technology that includes Common Rail Fuel Injection – which delivers maximum efficiency throughout the power range, Sequential Turbo-charging – which ensures fast acceleration and rapid response, and the latest Electronic Engine Management Control System – which delivers constant monitoring of the engine and gearbox operating parameters.
High power density, low weight and compact design coupled with excellent mechanical and thermodynamic properties are intrinsic elements of MTU engines. Their simple operation, ease of maintenance, low life-cycle costs and proven performance in a wide range of applications have made them the high speed diesel of choice in the 10,000 hp to 13,000 hp range.
MTU is currently completing certification to American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Naval Vessel Rules for its Series 8000 engine. Certification is anticipated in time for delivery of the first JHSV to the U.S. Navy in late 2011. The JHSV will be built at Austal USA’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama.
Military Branch Vessel Type Engines
U.S. Coast Guard National Security Cutters MTU 20V 1163
U.S. Coast Guard Response Boat – Mediums MTU Series 60
U.S. Coast Guard Motor Life Boats MTU 6V 92
U.S. Coast Guard Coastal Patrol Boats MTU 8V 396
U.S. Navy Littoral Combat Ships MTU 20V 8000
U.S. Army and U.S. Navy Joint High Speed Vessels MTU 20V 8000
