USA: BAE Systems’ Mobile Shipyard Launches Chemical Tanker American Phoenix

BAE Systems in Mobile, Alabama joined with Mid Ocean Tanker Company (MOTC) to complete and commission the American Phoenix, a U.S.-flagged, Jones Act-qualified chemical tanker. Measuring 616 feet long and 105 feet wide, the American Phoenix is the largest vessel ever built and launched in the State of Alabama. It has a laden draft of 36 feet and a cargo capacity of 49,000 dwt.

BAE Systems was contracted to complete construction of the American Phoenix and prepare it for use. The vessel is owned by MOTC, a joint venture between Mid Ocean Marine and private equity firm Alterna Capital Partners. Sea trials and delivery are scheduled to occur this month. The vessel will conduct trade initially in the Gulf of Mexico.

“Completion and delivery of the American Phoenix is a major event for shipbuilding in the Mobile area,” said Vic Rhoades, director and general manager of BAE Systems Southeast Shipyards Alabama. “In total, the construction of this vessel has created more than 150 full-time jobs and has helped us to secure follow-on new construction opportunities.”

The American Phoenix build also demonstrates BAE Systems’ continued growth in the commercial shipbuilding market. The Mobile yard has already begun its next project, which is to build an 8,500 cubic yard capacity trailing suction hopper dredge for Weeks Marine, Inc. That vessel, named MV Magdalen, is scheduled to be finished in 2014. When complete, it will measure 340 feet long and 79 feet wide, with a draft of 27 feet.

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Source: baesystems, July 19, 2012