Future USNS Trenton Launches

From Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- Austal USA launched the Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV) the future USNS Trenton from its shipyard Sept. 30.

Launch is a major milestone for a ship and its class, signifying that the vessel is ready to enter the final stages of construction. USNS Trenton will be the U.S. Navy's fifth Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV 5).

"The JHSV program is benefitting from serial production," said Capt. Henry Stevens, Strategic and Theater Sealift Program Manager, Program Executive Office, Ships. "Because of program maturity, design stability and a dedicated team of engineers and shipbuilders, we are launching this ship only seven months following the laying of her keel."

Trenton will now prepare for the tests and trials which will evaluate and ready the ship for delivery to Military Sealift Command (MSC) next spring. JHSVs are operated within MSCs Sealift program.

JHSVs are manned by a crew of 22 civil service mariners with military mission personnel embarking as required. The ships are capable of supporting of a wide range of operations across the world by facilitating the transport of troops, equipment, and supplies across operational distances including to austere and challenging ports.

As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, special mission and support ships, and special warfare craft. Delivering high-quality war fighting assets - while balancing affordability and capability - is key to supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy.