Mobile (Alabama)-headquartered shipbuilder Austal USA has delivered the LCU 1710 vessel to the U.S. Navy.
The delivery marks the first LCU 1700-class vessel ever delivered to the U.S. Navy and Austal USA’s first steel ship delivered to the Navy, the company said in its release.
Prior to delivery, the LCU 1710 completed acceptance trials, which included comprehensive testing of the ship’s major systems and equipment.
Throughout the trials, the U.S. Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) validated the quality of construction and mission readiness.
Austal USA said the vessel also demonstrated the ability to get underway without the assistance of tugs or pilots.
The LCU 1710 is designed to transport equipment and personnel from ship to shore in support of expeditionary operations.
In addition to the LCU program, Austal USA continues to expand its portfolio of steel and aluminum shipbuilding programs. The company currently has multiple vessels under construction and continues to support submarine module production and auxiliary ship programs for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.
“The successful completion of these trials reflects exceptional planning, flawless execution, dedication, and the collaboration of our shipbuilding team and Navy counterparts,” said Mike Pruitt, vice president of surface ship programs at Austal USA. “Our entire organization played a principal role in achieving these milestones, paving the way for delivery to the U.S. Navy.”
