The U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command has awarded VSE Corporation a contract worth up to $74 million to reactivate two former U.S. frigates prior to their delivery to the Taiwan Navy.
Under this contract, VSE will manage the industrial work, logistics and crew training for two Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, the ex-USS Taylor (FFG 50) and ex-USS Gary (FFG 51).
The company said the industrial work would be performed in Charleston, SC, and each ship would receive a Dry-Docking Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA) during which all hull, mechanical and electrical systems, as well as selected combat systems will be reactivated and tested to ensure the ships are returned to full operating capability.
The Taiwan crews will receive training on maintenance and operation of the FFG systems which will include training in the classroom, on-the-job training, and underway operational exercises.
According to the contract, the company has 16 months to complete the work.
“Since 1995 VSE has transferred more than 48 ships to foreign governments, including the transfer of twelve ex-U.S. Navy ships to Taiwan,” said Maurice Gauthier , VSE CEO, President and COO.
The sale of the two frigate to Taiwan for a price of $190 million was approved by the U.S. State Department in March 2016.