Austal launches its first steel ship, USNS Billy Frank Jr.

June 20, 2025, by Aida Čučuk

Shipbuilder Austal USA has launched the company’s first steel ship, the future USNS Billy Frank Jr., the U.S. Navy’s towing, salvage, and rescue ship (T-ATS 11).

As disclosed, the ship, launched on June 14, 2025, is one of three under construction at Austal USA and the first steel product of the company’s automated steel panel line. At 3,100 metric tons, it is said to be the heaviest ship Austal USA has launched to date.

Reportedly, T-ATS will be a multi-mission common hull platform capable of towing U.S. Navy ships and will have 6,000 square feet of deck space for embarked systems. It is understood that the platform will combine the capabilities of the retiring rescue and salvage ship (T-ARS 50) and fleet ocean tug (T-ATF 166) platforms.

Austal noted that T-ATS will be able to support current missions, including towing, salvage, rescue, oil spill response, humanitarian assistance, and wide-area search and surveillance, adding that the platform also supports potential future capability developments.

Harley Combs, Vice President of Surface Ship Programs, stated: “It was amazing to see the flawless rollout of our first steel ship. The completion of this milestone is the result of the hard work and dedication of our talented workforce. I am so proud of all they have accomplished.”

With construction more than 85% complete at the time of launch, the future USNS Billy Frank Jr. is now entering the final phases of preparation ahead of sea trials and delivery.

To remind, construction of the ship officially commenced with a keel laying ceremony in 2023, with the christening taking place in March 2025.

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