Article Posted on : - Sep 20, 2011

The Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1). US Navy Photo.

ALABAMA (BNS): The Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1), the first of 10 Navy joint high-speed vessels designed for rapid intra-theater transport of troops and military equipment was christened during a ceremony at Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama.

According to US Navy, Military Sealift Command will own and operate Spearhead and the other other joint high-speed vessels, or JHSVs, that are under contract to be built for the Navy.

The 338-foot-long aluminum catamarans are designed to be fast, flexible and maneuverable, even in shallow waters, making them ideal for transporting troops and equipment quickly within a theater of operations.

The JHSVs are capable of transporting 600 short tons of military troops, vehicles, supplies and equipment 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow-draft, austere ports and waterways, providing US forces added mobility and flexibility.

The JHSVs' aviation flight decks can support day and night flight operations. Each JHSV also has sleeping accommodations for up to 146 personnel and airline-style seating for up to 312.

Following acceptance trials, delivery to the US Navy and operational testing, Spearhead will be based in Little Creek, Virginia, and is expected to begin conducting missions for the Navy in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013.