WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy Saturday plans to christen its fourth joint high speed vessel, the USNS Fall River, in a ceremony in Mobile, Ala.
The joint high speed vessel from Austral USA is a 338 foot-long aluminum catamaran for fast, intratheater transportation of troops, military vehicles, supplies and equipment.
The vessels can transport 600 tons 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in austere ports and waterways. They feature an aviation flight deck and berthing space for as many as 104 personnel and airline-style seating for up to 312 troops.
"The christening of USNS Fall River marks the culmination of the hard work, skill and dedication of the hundreds of shipyard workers who have labored tirelessly to produce this modern marvel," Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus said.
The USNS Fall River will be delivered to the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command and will be crewed by 21 personnel.
