Austal USA, Mobile, Ala., celebrated the keel laying of the future 337'10"x93'6" USNS Cody (EPF 14) last week. Cody is a Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport (EPF), one of 15 that the Navy has contracted Austal to build. The ship is the first U.S. Navy ship named for the city of Cody, Wyo.
With a draft of only 13' and waterjet propulsion, the EPF is able to access austere and degraded ports with minimal external assistance providing flexibility to fleet and combatant commanders. With its maneuverability, large open mission bay and ability to achieve speeds over 35-knots, the EPFs have the capability to support additional missions such as special operations and medical support.
Four MTU 20V8000 M7 11 diesel engines, producing 12,203 hp at 1,150 rpm each, supply the EPF with its main propulsion. The mains connect to four Wärtsilä WLD 1400 SR waterjets through ZF 60000R2H marine gears. Maximum speed without payload is 43 knots, with a running speed (with payload) of 35 knots. Its range is 1,200 nautical miles.
