Textron-NOLA producing SSCs

NEW ORLEANS - Textron Systems Corp.’s shipbuilding facility in New Orleans successfully delivered its first air-cushion vehicle, Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) Craft 100, to the Navy in February. “This delivery is the result of the dedication by the joint Navy and industry team,” said Henry Finneral, senior VP of Textron Systems, “and will provide the Navy with a needed capability to rapidly transport material, personnel and humanitarian assistance to shorelines.” Prior to delivery, Craft 100 underwent integrated testing to demonstrate the capability of its fly-by-wire steering, electrical and propulsion systems and completed its acceptance trials in December. SSC’s are replacements for the fleet of LCACs (Landing Craft, Air-Cushion) vehicles. Follow-up SSCs will primarily transport weapon systems, equipment, cargo and personnel through tough environmental conditions to the beach. The Navy will continue to utilize Craft 100 as a test and training craft. There are 13 more SSCs in states of production in NOLA. Builder’s trials for Craft 101 are scheduled for the first quarter of 2019. Acceptance trials following later in the spring. (Source: Seapower 03/11/20) https://seapowermagazine.org/textron-delivers-first-next-generation-ship-to-shore-connector-to-the-navy/