Gladding-Hearn’s Twelfth Escort Vessel to U.S. Navy
After delivering its first vessel for the U.S. Navy 18 months ago, Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation, has delivered the last of 12, 64-ft screening escort vessels, operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, with the mission of securing high-value Naval assets in domestic ports.
The all-aluminum boat, like its sisters, features a C. Raymond-Hunt-designed deep-V hull, with a CPI Marine fender system, and is powered by twin MTU diesel engines and connected to Hamilton water-jets. Top speed is over 30 knots.
The pilothouse on a flush deck, with forward-leaning front windows, leads to the forecastle, equipped with a head, galley, berths, and lockers. Recessed rescue wells are located port and starboard at the vessel’s mid-ship. On the foredeck is a mount for a remotely-operated weapon system.
The interior is outfitted with Shockwave heavy-duty suspension seats, shock-mitigating floor matting, and a heating and air-conditioning system. Equipment includes integrated navigation systems and wireless crew communications and thermal imaging systems.