LPD 17 Looks Like a "Gator"
NAVSEA
By Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs
WASHINGTON -- AVONDALE, La. -- With the installation of its stern gate and final section of bow, San Antonio (LPD 17) now has the distinctive appearance of an amphibious transport dock. The first of twelve ships of the San Antonio class continues to progress toward its delivery in late 2004.
The LPD 17 has an upper stern gate that weighs over 20 tons and a lower stern gate that weighs 53 tons. They are about 78 feet wide and enclose an opening that is about 35 feet high.
When opened, these gates provide ample room for launching or recovering LCACs (landing craft, air cushion), an LCU (landing craft utility) or amphibious vehicles such as the Marine Corps' Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle. The ship's well deck and vehicle storage can carry both landing craft and amphibious vehicles and ballast/deballast as necessary.
This month Northrop Grumman Ship Systems Avondale Operation lifted the 311-ton final major bow section into place completing the ship's foc'sle. LPD 17 is now at its full length of 684 feet.
Construction remains on track for commissioning in 2005. In the next month, barges will deliver two Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensors to the shipyard from their production site in Gulfport, Miss. Installation of these innovative, composite material structures is scheduled for May and June. Actual launching of the San Antonio is scheduled for July and the first members of the Pre-Commissioning crew, who will start reporting to the ship in September 2003, are receiving their orders.
The Navy is also making progress on the other LPD 17 class ships. The shipyard will land Main Propulsion Diesel Engines and reduction gears in the future USS New Orleans (LPD 18) this spring. Additionally, Mesa Verde's (LPD 19) keel laying ceremony and the start of construction for Green Bay (LPD 20) are also scheduled for the spring.
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