Solar Solve Supplies USNS Ship of The Future

[By: Solar Solve Marine]

The Team at South Shields based Solar Solve Marine were delighted when they heard that USNS APALACHICOLA (EPF 13) had successfully completed Acceptance Trials and Unmanned Logistics Prototype Trials. The vessel is the 13th in a series of Expeditionary Fast Transport catamarans that are of High speed, shallow draft, able to load/unload in austere ports and are highly manoeuvrable. It is the first vessel to be constructed with autonomous capability (can steer itself) and very definitely deserves its Ship of the Future tag.

There are 35 of Solar Solve Marine’s Type Approved SOLASAFE roller sunscreens installed at the vessel’s navigation bridge and control room windows. When in use they will reject glare, heat/cold and UV radiation from the sun or ice, creating a more comfortable and safe working environment for the personnel, something that they really appreciate.

In transit from Mobile, Alabama, to Miami, Florida, USNS APALACHICOLA’s autonomous system completed a stress test in high-traffic coastal areas by taking appropriate ship handling actions while operating around other ships, boats, sailboats, and craft. Overall, the ship was in autonomous mode for approximately 85 percent of the multiple-days-at-sea period. The ship is due to be delivered to the US Military Sealift Command by the end of 2022.

Carl Johnson, Solar Solve’s Operations Manager commented, “We are very proud of our long association with the US Navy and Military Sealift Command and especially with the EPF vessels, as Solar Solve has been the roller sunscreen supplier of choice for the whole series so far.” 

“For this 13th ship to also be setting the groundwork for future autonomous operations, is an added bonus for us."