Amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22) was declared fit for duty after successfully completing Final Contract Trials (FCTs) December 7.
FCTs are the final in-depth examination of all newly constructed ships to ensure the ship meets all Navy standards and requirements.
After a ship is delivered to the Navy, they remain under warranty for one year while the ship’s crew works with contractors and inspectors to identify and fix any discrepancies found. San Diego was delivered to the Navy Dec. 19, 2011 and spent a busy year ensuring the sixth ship in the San Antonio class was mission ready.
“I’m extremely proud of my crew; their pride and dedication is inspiring,” said Capt. William Grotewold, San Diego’s commanding officer.
Most new-construction ships require an additional maintenance period, or Post Shakedown Availability (PSA), in order to fix the discrepancies in order to pass inspection by the Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV). San Diego was able to pass INSURV before (PSA).
“We’re the first in the San Antonio class to conduct Final Contract Trials prior to PSA,” said Grotewold. “This is a true testament to the skill and hard work of the crew; PMS 317, Huntington Ingalls Industries, NASSCO shipyard and the Regional Maintenance Center. We were able to identify and work together to fix the major issues prior to PSA. Truly a team win.”
San Diego, homeported in her namesake city, is currently conducting PSA and will begin her basic training phase next year in preparation for her maiden deployment in 2014. The amphibious transport dock is the sixth in the San Antonio class and capable of transporting up to 800 Marines and their vehicles around the world for amphibious landings.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, February 15, 2013