US Naval Sea Systems Command picks Jensen for workboat design

The US Naval Sea Systems Command has picked a Jensen Maritime Consultants workboat design to be used for the construction of workboats for the US Navy.

Jensen Maritime Consultants did not identify the boat builder that will be in charge of delivering the vessels to the navy adding only that the boats are to be used at US Navy port locations around the world.

The selected design is a 41-foot vessel with a 22,000-pound bollard-pull. It is designed to assist barges, submarines, and other naval vessels; open and close security barriers; and tow or push floating port operations support equipment.

To support these missions, Jensen said it designed the vessel to include two Pullmaster hydraulic deck winches for use in multiple mooring configurations and heavy-duty fendering to offer protection when performing such work.

Unique to the workboat, according to the company, is a removable cabin and push knees, which allow it to be transported over-the-road by truck. The propulsion system consists of ZF W325 marine gears and inboard diesel engines, Twin Cummins QSM11-455, which offer 450 BHP at 2,100 RPM.

The workboat offers a complete HVAC system and a 3,100-pound total payload, including up to five crewmembers, additional mission gear and cargo, and a six-person life raft. The boat has been designed to American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards and meets the US Navy’s stability requirements, including damage stability.

Delivery is expected in fall of 2018.

“We are proud to have our highly functional, safe and efficient design selected for this new series of workboats,” said Jensen’s Bryan Nichols, director, business development. “We have worked closely with the build team to ensure maximum efficiency for vessel construction. Once completed, it will be a well-equipped, very maneuverable workhorse.”