Navy orders more JHSVs from Austal

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MOBILE, Ala., Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Austal USA is building the eighth and ninth Joint High Speed Vessels for the U.S. Navy under contract options worth $321.7 million.

The JHSV is a 337-foot, diesel engine-powered catamaran with a flight deck and seating for more than 300 troops, plus cargo.

The Navy gave Austal a contract to build the first JHSV in 2008, with options for nine more. The total value of the contract with the exercise of all options is $6.1 billion.

"The Navy's growing confidence in Austal and the JHSV program becomes more evident with each new contract award," said Austal USA's President and Chief Operating Officer Joe Rella.

"Austal will continue to reward our customer with improved efficiency evidenced in our continued on-time delivery of high-quality, affordable ships."

The mission systems aboard the vessel, including communications, navigation and aviation, are provided by General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems.