“I am pleased that the Navy continues to recognize Austal’s tremendous shipbuilding capabilities,†said Shelby. “This $1.6 billion award for ten vessels is a testament to Alabama’s stellar workforce. This award enhances south Alabama’s defense community and complements our state’s service to our armed forces.â€
The JHSV is a joint Navy-Army program for a high-speed, shallow draft vessel intended for rapid intra-theater transport of cargo. It reaches speeds up to 45 knots and allows for the rapid transit and deployment of troops as well as equipment and supplies. The JHSV will include a flight deck for helicopter operations and an off-load ramp that will allow vehicles to quickly drive off the ship. It will transport Army and Marine Corps company-sized units with their vehicles, or be a troop transport for an infantry battalion.
The Navy’s current acquisition plan calls for building ten vessels between fiscal year 2010 and fiscal year 2015.
