U.S. Shipyards Competing – and Succeeding – Overseas
Foreign Demand For U.S. Military And Commercial Vessels Is Brisk; For Now. In the heavy shadow of possible sequestration-induced federal budget cuts, some U.S. companies are busy supplying vessels to overseas customers under the Navy’s Foreign Military Sales program and through private contracts to foreign government and firms. Demand for offshore oil vessels is strong. A big chunk of overseas business now is under the U.S. FMS, transferring defense equipment, services and training to other nations. Countries approved for the FMS pay for vessels themselves and/or with U.S. government help.
Kvichak Nets Five-Year Coast Guard Contract
Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc., of Seattle, WA, was awarded a five year contract by the U.S. Coast Guard for the construction of up to 80 each Transportable Port Security Boats (TPSB) in 2011. Kvichak recently delivered the 30th hull of this contract to the USCG. The all-aluminum vessels are operated by a crew of 4 and include shock mitigating seats to minimize crew fatigue on extended missions. Ballistic Armor Protection and up to 4 mounted weapons provide increased mission capability and crew safety during tactical operations.
Kvichak Gets Coast Guard TPSB Contract
Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc., of Seattle, Wash., was recently awarded a five year contract by the U.S. Coast Guard for the construction of up to 80 each Transportable Port Security Boats (TPSB). The all-aluminum vessels are operated by a crew of four and include shock mitigating seats to minimize crew fatigue on extended missions. Ballistic Armor Protection and up to four mounted weapons provide increased mission capability and crew safety during tactical operations. The 32.8-ft vessels will be replacing the USCG’s current aging fleet of smaller, outboard powered fiberglass boats.
