Austal USA Launches USNS Cody (EPF 14) and USS Kingsville (LCS 36) in a Display of Shipyard Efficiency

USNS Cody (EPF 14) and USS Kingsville: Austal USA, a global leader in shipbuilding, launched two Navy ships last week – USNS Cody (EPF 14) and the future USS Kingsville (LCS 36) – showcasing the shipyard’s launch process efficiency. Both vessels will undergo final outfitting and system activation before being tested at sea later this year.
Austal USA’s Launch Process
During the launch process, the ships, weighing over 2,500 metric tons, are lifted almost three feet in the air. The ships are moved approximately 400 feet onto a moored deck barge adjacent to the final assembly bay using transporters. The ships are transferred from the deck barge to a floating dry dock, which is then submerged, allowing the ships to float for the first time.
Partnerships for Process Discipline
Austal USA’s Vice President of New Construction, Dave Growden, attributes the success of the launch process to the shipbuilder’s process discipline and partnerships with key vendors such as Berard. The teams work methodically alongside Navy partners to identify opportunities for improvement and achieve major ship milestones.
Final Outfitting and System Activation
With both ships in the water, production efforts will transition to final outfitting and system activation to prepare the vessel for sea trials.
The Significance of the Ships
USNS Cody, the Navy’s first Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) Flight II vessel, was christened last month. As the first EPF Flight II, the ship will provide enhanced naval medicine afloat capabilities and critical combat care in austere and contested operating environments. The future USS Kingsville, the Navy’s 18th Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), will be deployed to the Pacific fleet area of responsibility, supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.
Nearing Completion of EPF and LCS New Construction Programs
Both ships are nearing completion of Austal USA’s EPF and LCS new construction programs. USNS Cody is the 14th EPF, and Kingsville is the 18th of 19 Independence-variant LCS that Austal USA is building for the Navy.
In conclusion, Austal USA’s efficient launch process and partnerships have allowed for the successful launch of USNS Cody and USS Kingsville. The ships’ significance in providing critical combat care and supporting maritime security highlights the importance of their completion. With these launches, Austal USA’s EPF and LCS new construction programs are nearing completion.