US Navy’s newest EFT to be named Newport

The US Navy’s next expeditionary fast transport (EPF) ship will be named USNS Newport (T-EPF 12).

The EPF, formerly named the joint high-speed vessel (JHSV), is a shallow draught, all-aluminium, commercial-based catamaran that is designed for high- speed intra-theatre surface lift.

It supports overseas contingency operations, conducts humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions and supports special operations forces.

This is the fourth ship to bear the name honouring the Rhode Island city of Newport, which hosts Naval Station Newport and the Naval War College.

Austal USA at Mobile, Alabama will build the new EPF, which will be 103 metres in length, have a waterline beam of 28.5 metres, displace 2,362 tonnes and operate at speeds greater than 35 knots.