Austal USA floats out US Navy’s final EPF USNS Lansing

March 2, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Shipbuilding company Austal USA has launched the US Navy’s final expeditionary fast transport, future USNS Lansing (EPF 16).

The launching ceremony took place in Mobile, Alabama, on February 25, 2026. During this launch process, self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT) lifted the ship almost three feet and moved it approximately 400 feet onto a deck barge moored adjacent to the final assembly bay.

The barge moved the ship downriver, where the ship was placed in a floating dry dock. The EPF was submerged in the dry dock, enabling it to float for the first time, and it was returned back upriver to Austal USA’s new construction facility.

“The successful launch of this final Expeditionary Fast Transport is a true reflection of the power of teamwork and our commitment to applying lessons learned to every aspect of our work,” said Gene Miller, Austal USA Interim President.

“Our test and activation teams, crane and rigging crews, and safety personnel worked seamlessly alongside our Navy partners and trusted vendors like Berard Transportation, Alabama Shipyard, and E.N. Bisso & Son tug services. These strong partnerships enable us to continuously refine our processes, identify areas for improvement, and efficiently achieve critical shipbuilding milestones to further support and strengthen the maritime industrial base.”

EPF 16, as the final Flight II ship of the Spearhead class, will be able to deploy as an expeditionary fast transport, as a Role 2 medical-capable platform, or as a combination of both.

The unit is currently designated to be crewed by 31 civilian mariners and is capable of embarking up to 155 embarked forces, or an expeditionary medical unit as required.

The ship, which was christened in early January, is now docked pier-side for final outfitting and system activation in preparation for sea trials later this year.