General Dynamics NASSCO has received 1.7 billion dollars to build two additional John Lewis class fleet oilers for the US Navy, the company stated.
The award covers the construction of T AO 215 and T AO 216 and forms part of an ongoing multi-ship programme that could total eight vessels.
According to the organisation, the ships belong to the U.S. Navy’s replenishment oiler series designed to refuel surface combatants at sea. The class features a full load displacement of nearly 50,000 tons, capacity for 162,000 barrels of fuel, dry cargo space and aviation facilities. The vessels are 742 feet long and are built to sustain speeds of around 20 knots.
NASSCO president Dave Carver said “the T AO program holds significant importance to the men and women of NASSCO and is one we take great pride in it’s the longest running Navy production series in NASSCO history.” He added that the new funding will stabilise the workforce by maintaining a strong order backlog.
The company noted that the Navy originally ordered six John Lewis class ships in 2016, later expanding the programme several times. Four vessels have already been delivered and five more are under construction at NASSCO’s San Diego yard.
General Dynamics describes NASSCO as a major supplier of naval and commercial shipbuilding and repair services across several US locations.
Well on the way to Net Zero then !
They are very economical as they carry a 300,000 tons of jet fuel.
And that’s economical in itself given the 50 thousands ton full load !!!!
The Tide Class are much more pleasant on the eyes.