Austal Launches Its First Steel Ship

Austal USA of Mobile successfully launched its first steel ship, the future USNS Billy Frank Jr. (T-ATS 11), on June 14. Named after a Native American Korean War veteran who, as an activist, fought for justice and environmental preservation in the Northwest, the Billy Frank Jr. is a U.S. Navy Towing, Salvage and Rescue Ship—one of three under construction at Austal. At 3,100 mT, the T-ATS 11 is the heaviest ship Austal USA has launched. The launch was executed using the proven process used for most of the 32 Navy ships the company has built and delivered to the Navy over the last 15 years. With the ship more than 85% complete at the time of launch, she will now be prepared for her next major milestone, engine light off, as she is prepared for sea trials and delivery.