Alabama-based shipbuilder Austal christened the US Navy’s fourth Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV) Fall River in Mobile, Al. on January 11th, 2014.
The Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, said that the Fall River represents the physical embodiment of the city of Fall River’s patriotic spirit.
Mrs. Diane Bemus Patrick, the ship’s sponsor, also attended the ceremony, which welcomed over 400 naval and shipyard guests.
The ship will be able to transport arms and vehicles for the US Army and Marine Corps as well as ensure troop transport for an infantry battalion.
Three other Joint High Speed Vessels and four LCSs are currently under construction at the shipyard.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 13, 2014; Image: Austal