The Future USNS Puerto Rico (EPF 11) Successfully Completes Sea Trials

Austal USA and the Navy’s Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) program successfully completed Integrated Trials on the future USNS Puerto Rico (EPF 11) last week.  These trials were unique in that they combined Builder’s Trials with Acceptance Trials for the first time on an EPF vessel.  Combining the two trials allows for greater efficiency, cost reduction, and earlier ship delivery to the customer.

“Our customer’s confidence in this program and the maturity of the production line is a direct reflection of the outstanding work our team is doing to reduce cost and deliver on schedule,” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “I can’t begin to express how proud I am of our team’s hard work and dedication.  We successfully completed and passed all tests and returned from sea earlier than scheduled.”

Sea trials involve intense comprehensive tests that demonstrate the successful operation of the ship’s major systems and equipment while underway in Gulf of Mexico. It is the last milestone before delivery of the future USNS Puerto Rico to the U.S. Navy in the fall, the eleventh ship in Austal USA’s growing 14-ship portfolio.