Master Boat Builders, Inc. (“Master Boat”) has commenced the module fabrication for the US Navy’s Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue Ship (T-ATS) program under its partnership with Austal USA. The start of fabrication marks a significant milestone as Master Boat advances its role in the Navy’s effort to strengthen and diversify the domestic shipbuilding industrial base.
“Starting fabrication on these modules is an exciting and proud moment for our team,” said Garrett Rice, President of Master Boat Builders. “We said we were ready to take on complex Navy work, and now we’re proving it. This is exactly the kind of program that showcases what Gulf Coast shipbuilders can do.”
Master Boat is fabricating two T-ATS hull modules at its Coden shipyard, located approximately 30 minutes from Austal USA’s Mobile facility. Upon completion, the modules will be transported to Austal USA for final erection and outfitting.
The T-ATS program is designed to replace the aging fleet of ocean tugs and rescue and salvage ships with a modern, multi-mission platform capable of open-ocean towing, salvage and recovery operations, diving support, and humanitarian and disaster response. Master Boat’s participation in the program also supports workforce development and strengthens regional shipbuilding capacity along the Gulf Coast, where the company currently employs more than 400 people at its Coden shipyard.
