Austal USA Shipyard launches new JHSV for Navy

MOBILE, Ala., May 20 (UPI) -- A sixth joint high speed vessel for the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command has been launched by Austal USA Shipyard.

The future USNS Brunswick is about 337 feet long, has a beam of about 93 feet and a speed of 43 knots.

The intra-theater transport vessel will be capable of transporting 600 tons of cargo 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and features a flight deck for helicopter operations and an off-load ramp for quick vehicular access to and from the ship.

"Launch marks a major milestone for this ship as this is the first time it's entered the water, signifying its readiness to prepare for tests and trials and eventual delivery," said Navy Capt. Henry Stevens, Strategic and Theater Sealift Program Manager, Program Executive Office, Ships. "This is a very busy time for the Navy and the shipbuilder as we continue to mark the major milestones that bring each ship closer to delivery and eventual in-service operations."

JHSV 5, USNS Trenton, was christened in January and delivered to the Navy in April. Brunswick had her keel authenticated less than six months ago and was christened earlier this month. It will be delivered to the Navy by the end of the year.