Austal USA opens new San Diego operations office
Austal USA has opened its new San Diego operations office. The move is another milestone in the company’s growing service and support business, the Company said in a press release.
“Today’s opening is a direct reflection of the company’s commitment to provide the U.S. Navy, not only exceptional ships, but outstanding service and support for the life of the ship,” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “With nine Expeditionary Fast Transport ships and eight Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ships delivered to the Navy, and many more to follow, this expansion increases our ability to support our ships beyond delivery and as they deploy.”
The new San Diego office opening is another significant measure by Austal USA to expand its business, currently ranked as the nation’s fifth largest shipbuilder. This San Diego opening comes on the heels of the company’s recent acquisition of ElectraWatch, an industry leading technology company, and its Singapore office opening in January 2017.
“The Navy can rest assure Austal USA will continue to deliver on our promise of providing cost effective solutions, superior ships, worldwide service and support to the fleet,” said Perciavalle.
The new facility will employ over 200 professionals, dedicated to service work for both Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) and Expeditionary Fast Transports (EPF). This location will serve as a base of operations on the West Coast for Austal USA. Qualified maritime industry professionals interested in joining Austal’s West Coast team can apply for an open position at www.austaljobs.com.
Austal has delivered two LCS to the Navy in 2018 while another five are under construction. LCS 18 is preparing for acceptance trials as LCS 20, 22, 24 and LCS 26 are following close behind. Additionally, Austal has two more LCS in a pre-construction phase, LCS 28 and LCS 30.
In addition to being in full rate production for the LCS program, Austal is also the Navy’s prime contractor for the Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) program. Austal has delivered nine EPF vessels, while an additional three are in various stages of construction.
