Austal USA launches EPF 9

MOBILE, Ala. - The Navy’s ninth expeditionary fast transport vessel, USNS City of Bismarck (EPF 9), was launched June 7 from the Austal USA Shipyard in Mobile, Ala., according to a Naval Sea Systems Command media release. “Launching is a significant achievement in the production process,” said Capt. Henry Stevens of the Program Executive Office. “We’ll now focus our efforts to final outfitting in preparation for trials.” Austal USA and the Navy have marked major milestones in the EPF program this year. USNS Yuma was delivered in April. The Navy christened City of Bismarck in May. Austal also is under contract for the construction of EPF 11 and EPF 12. (Source: Sea Power magazine 06/08/17)