RV Neil Armstrong Completes Acceptance Trials
The first-of-class oceanographic research vessel R/V Neil Armstrong (AGOR 27) successfully completed acceptance trials on 7 August 2015, according to the Navy report on 27 August 2015. Neil Armstrong is a mono-hull research vessel based on commercial design, capable of integrated, interdisciplinary, general-purpose oceanographic research in coastal and deep ocean areas.
The Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) found the ship to be well-built and inspection-ready. The trials evaluated the ship's major systems and equipment to include demonstrations of the ship's main propulsion system, dynamic positioning system, navigation, cranes and winches and communication systems.
According to Mike Kosar, programme manager for the Support Ships, Boats and Craft office within the Program Executive Office, Ships, Neil Armstrong performed very well during the trials, especially for a first of class vessel. The results of these tests and the outstanding fit, finish and quality of the vessel, stand as a testament to the preparation and effort of the entire shipbuilding team.
Acceptance trials represent the cumulative efforts following a series of in-port and underway inspections conducted jointly by the AGOR Program Office, SUPSHIP, and builder Dakota Creek Industries throughout the construction, test and trials process. The trials are the last significant shipbuilding milestone before delivery of the ship to the Navy, expected to occur this fall.
Variety of Missions
Neil Armstrong Class AGORS are 238 feet (72m) long and incorporate the latest technologies, including high-efficiency diesel engines, emissions controls for stack gasses, and new information technology tools both for monitoring shipboard systems and for communicating with the world. These ships will provide scientists with the tools and capabilities to support ongoing research including in the Atlantic, western Pacific and Indian Ocean regions across a wide variety of missions.
Neil Armstrong will be capable of assisting with integrated, interdisciplinary, general purpose oceanographic research in coastal and deep ocean areas. The ship will be operated by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution under a charter party agreement with Office of Naval Research (ONR). The vessel will operate with a crew of 20 with accommodations for 24 scientists.
