Contract Authorization: Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s $257M Project
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has formally authorized Eastern Shipbuilding Group to proceed with its recently awarded $257 million contract to design and construct a new medium-class hopper dredge (MCHD). Slated for completion by 2027, this state-of-the-art vessel will be built at Eastern’s facilities in Allanton and Port St. Joe.
CEO Perspective: Gratitude and Commitment to Excellence
Joey D’Isernia, CEO of Eastern Shipbuilding Group, expressed gratitude to the Army Corps for entrusting them with this significant project, underscoring its pivotal role in national maritime initiatives. D’Isernia emphasized Eastern’s distinction as the sole U.S. shipyard with a track record of delivering comparable dredges in the past decade and reiterated their commitment to a productive partnership with the USACE.
Fleet Enhancement: Role of the New Hopper Dredge in USACE Operations
The upcoming hopper dredge will join the USACE’s Ready Reserve Fleet, replacing the aging McFarland dredge stationed in the Philadelphia Engineer District after 57 years of service. The McFarland is one of four oceangoing hopper dredges owned and operated by the USACE.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s Track Record in Dredge Construction
Eastern Shipbuilding Group has a proven history of success in constructing large and complex hopper dredges for commercial clients. Notable recent deliveries include the ATB TSHD Douglas B. Mackie/Ellis Island (2017), TSHD Magdalen (2017), and TSHD R.B. Weeks (2023).
Collaborative Partnership: Eastern Shipbuilding Group and Royal IHC
For this latest project, Eastern has partnered with Royal IHC, a renowned designer and builder of dredging vessels and equipment. Together, they aim to deliver a cutting-edge diesel-electric hopper dredge tailored to USACE specifications. Drawing on Royal IHC’s expertise in designing and constructing similar vessels, the new dredge’s hullform, based on the proven Beagle TSHD-series, ensures optimal performance in carrying capacity, dredging operations, seakeeping, and open water transit, guaranteeing dependable operational capabilities.