USA: Incat Crowther has delivered the 'John A. B. Dillard Jr' to the US Army Corps of Engineers for operation in San Francisco.
The vessel was constructed by Kvichak Marine's Seattle shipyard.
The vessel has an overall length of 26.4 metres, an overall beam of 7.9 metres and a loaded draught of 1.8 metres. The vessel can reach a maximum speed of 27.5 knots and is driven by two Caterpillar C32 ACERT engines providing 970kW at 2,100rpm.
Operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the vessel is charged with the responsibility of keeping San Francisco Bay and its tributaries free of obstacles and hazards. This vessel allows the Corps to respond more quickly and ensure the shipping lanes of the San Francisco Bay are kept clear and operating.
One of the key design additions for this vessel is the plating belt around the waterline. Another operational feature is the sonar unit mounted on the main deck, allowing the vessel to detect submerged debris.
