Austal launches JHSV

MOBILE, Ala. -- Austal USA successfully completed the launch process of the second joint high-speed vessel, the USNS Choctaw County. On Sunday the vessel was lifted out of the shed where it was being put together onto a deck barge floating in the Mobile River. It was floated to BAE Systems Southeast Shipyard, where it was transferred to the Drydock Alabama, BAE's floating dry dock. The dry dock was then submerged and the Choctaw County entered the water. It was towed back up river to the shipbuilder's facility, where it will undergo final outfitting. The JHSV is 338 feet long and will be used to move troops, weapons and cargo. (Source: Mobile Press-Register, 10/02/12)