The US Navy has awarded Louisiana-based Conrad Shipyard a US$28.3 million contract modification for the delivery of one additional YRBM-57-class yard, repair, berthing and messing barge (YRBM).
The barge is scheduled for delivery to the navy in 2027.
Like YRBM-57, which was delivered by Conrad Shipyard in 2024, the vessel will have a length of 151.33 feet (46.125 metres), a beam of 49.33 feet (15.04 metres), a draught of 6.75 feet (2.06 metres) at full load, a depth of 14 feet (4.3 metres), and a displacement of 1,290 tonnes. It will be built to have a service life of 40 years.
The barge will provide pierside living accommodation capable of berthing 199 mixed gender personnel and messing for up to 300 personnel. There will also be spaces for medical offices and examination rooms, classrooms for 72 personnel, a conference room that can seat 25, workspaces, self-service and bulk laundry rooms, storerooms, and lounge areas.
Because of the YRBMs’ significant capacities, they will provide berthing and messing space for the crews of cruisers, destroyers, and smaller amphibious ships, whereas many of the navy’s older barges could each accommodate only a limited number of personnel.