The first of the Navy’s Mobile Landing Platforms designed to boost logistical operations at sea while reducing dependence on foreign ports completed sea trials last week.
The USNS Montford Point (MLP-1), built by General Dynamics [GD] National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO), underwent the sea trial in San Diego on Mar. 20.
“This first-of-class ship performed very well during builder’s trials, a testament to the preparation and dedication of the Navy-industry team in designing and building this transformational platform,” said Capt. Henry Stevens, the program manager for strategic and theater sealift. “The ship performed well and pending additional trials and delivery later this year, MLP 1 will help transition the Navy toward increased modularity and operational flexibility in its ships.”
The trials tested the vessel’s propulsion, ballasting, communications, navigation and mission systems. NASSCO is to perform corrections ahead of Navy acceptance trials next month.
The MLPs are based on an existing commercial design, the Alaska-class crude oil carrier also built by NASSCO.
The ship is able to partially submerge to allow easy movement of cargo and craft. The ship’s size allows for 25,000 square feet of vehicle and equipment stowage space and 380,000 gallons of fuel storage.
The ship is expected to be delivered to the Navy in fiscal year 2013 and will be operational in fiscal year 2015.