USNS Millinocket (JHSV 3) was successfully launched from the Austal USA shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, recently. The third joint high speed vessel is a versatile, non-combatant, transport ship that will be used for fast intra-theatre transportation of troops, military vehicles and equipment.

“This launch is an important achievement for the programme, as it’s the first time the ship has entered the water,” said JHSV Programme Manager Capt. Henry Stevens. “Launching signifies a ship is ready to enter into the final phase of construction including test and activation of major equipment such as the propulsion plant.”

Millinocket will now prepare for a series of trials conducted by the shipbuilder, testing overall system performance underway prior to demonstration to the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey later this year.

Each JHSV is designed to commercial standards, with limited modifications for military use. These vessels can transport 600 short tonnes 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, providing US forces added mobility and flexibility. The ships also have an aviation flight deck to support day and night air vehicle launch and recovery operations. JHSVs have berthing space for up to 104 personnel and airline-style seating for up to 312.