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The Christening of the USNS Billy Frank Jr. Marks a New Chapter in the Modernization of the U.S. Navy’s Support Fleet, with Navajo-Class Tugs Taking Center Stage.
Austal, a renowned shipyard, has taken another decisive step in renewing the U.S. Navy’s support fleet with the christening of the future USNS Billy Frank Jr., a tug that is part of the new and promising Navajo class.
The vessel, identified as T-ATS 11, is the sixth in the series and is tasked with performing salvage, rescue, and logistical support operations for other ships in the U.S. fleet. Construction of the ship began in late 2023 and is part of a contract between Austal and the U.S. Navy worth US$ 79.2 million, signed in the first half of the same year.
New Tug Reinforces Critical Operations of the U.S. Navy
The USNS Billy Frank Jr. is not just another vessel under construction — it represents the modernization of the essential functions of the U.S. naval force.
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The Navajo class has been designed to replace the veteran ships of the Safeguard and Powhatan classes, which have played critical roles in logistical support and in rescuing stranded or distressed vessels at sea for decades.
With a displacement of over 5,000 tons, 80 meters in length, and 59 meters in beam, the new tugs are true multifunctional platforms. They have a crew of 42 sailors and an impressive operational range of up to 9,400 nautical miles.
Continuous Progress in the Construction of Navajo Tugs
In addition to the Billy Frank Jr., Austal confirmed that construction of the future USNS Solomon Atkinson (T-ATS 12) and USNS James D. Fairbanks (T-ATS 13) is well underway.
The T-ATS 13 began construction in mid-2024, highlighting Austal’s commitment to the timelines of the naval modernization program.
The contract also includes two additional units, whose construction has not yet started, but is part of the same strategic effort to strengthen the capabilities of the U.S. Navy in increasingly challenging global scenarios.
Versatile Tugs for Multiple Missions
The versatility of the Navajo class is one of its main differentiators. The spacious deck allows for the installation of interchangeable systems and autonomous technologies, as well as being equipped to respond to oil spills, engage in humanitarian missions, and conduct long-range surveillance operations.
Austal is also focusing on developing modular capabilities in the ships, allowing them to serve as adaptable logistical platforms for various types of missions. This includes appropriate interfaces for integration with modern systems, significantly expanding the range of uses for the tugs.
With the Navajo class, Austal and the U.S. Navy signal a new cycle of modernization and resilience in maritime support force. The new tugs not only update the fleet but also set a new standard for operational capability, onboard technology, and tactical flexibility.
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