BAE Systems’ shipyard in Alabama has begun construction on the first of two platform supply vessels (PSVs) for GulfMark Americas, Inc. Executives and employees from both companies gathered recently at the BAE Systems’ facility in Mobile to oversee the initial cutting of steel for the vessel’s first module, which is expected to be delivered in the second half of 2014.
The BAE Systems-built 300-Class Green DP2 vessels are designed by MMC Ship Design & Marine Consulting, Ltd. of Poland and will be based on similar PSVs currently under construction for GulfMark abroad. The new vessels will be U.S. flagged and will support the anticipated future demand in the Gulf of Mexico offshore market, as well as other areas around the world.
“GulfMark is excited to begin construction of its new, environmentally friendly, 300-Class PSVs for the Gulf of Mexico,” said Quintin Kneen, executive vice president and chief financial officer for GulfMark. “We look forward to working with the BAE Systems team in Mobile to construct these state-of-the-art vessels that will be the largest and most technologically advanced vessels in our U.S. fleet.”
“This start of construction confirms our entrance into the offshore new construction commercial market and further signifies our long-term commitment to our valued customers in this highly competitive arena,” said Gene Caldwell, BAE Systems’ director of New Construction. “We now have four vessels under construction, and we continue to solidify our workforce in Mobile.”
In addition to the two PSVs for GulfMark, the company is building a 356 feet long dredge, which is scheduled for delivery in mid-2014 and two 295 feet long dump scows.
BAE Systems in Mobile currently has approximately 850 employees and expects to reach 1,500 workers by the end of 2013. Career opportunities are available at www.baesystems.jobs.