SAN DIEGO – October 16, 2015 – General Dynamics NASSCO signaled the start of construction of a fifth “ECO” tanker to be built for American Petroleum Tankers at a steel cutting ceremony at NASSCO’s San Diego shipyard. Betsy Larson, wife of NASSCO’s director of commercial programs, Parker Larson, served as the ceremony’s honoree.
As part of a five-tanker contract between NASSCO and American Petroleum Tankers, each of the 50,000 deadweight ton product carriers to be constructed by NASSCO shipbuilders will be LNG-conversion ready and will carry 330,000 barrels of cargo. With a specialized ECO design, the tankers are more energy efficient and incorporate environmental protection features, including a Ballast Water Treatment System.
“Today’s start of construction signals the fifth tanker currently under construction at NASSCO for our customer, American Petroleum Tankers. As a result of advanced design and technology, once delivered, these tankers will be among the most energy-efficient, fuel-saving tankers in the world – benefitting both our customer and the end consumer,” said Kevin Graney, vice president and general manager for General Dynamics NASSCO. “These tankers help fuel America’s economy – and NASSCO is proud to be a part of that mission.”
The tankers were designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. DSEC’s ECO design achieves improved fuel efficiency through several features, including a G-series MAN ME slow-speed main engine and an optimized hull form. The tankers will have conversion-capable, dual-fuel-capable auxiliary engines and the ability to accommodate the future installation of an LNG fuel-gas system and tanks.
The construction and operation of the new vessels are aligned with the Jones Act, requiring ships carrying cargo between U.S. ports to be built, crewed and owned by the U.S.
For more information about General Dynamics NASSCO, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), visit nassco.com.
More information about General Dynamics is available at www.generaldynamics.com.
For more information about American Petroleum Tankers, please visit www.kindermorgan.com/business/terminals/apt.cfm.
