Posted on 03/21/2002 5:52:08 AM PST by g'nad
European Stars and Stripes
March 20, 2002
Rota Marines Try Out Experimental High-Speed Catamaran Ferry
By Scott Schonauer, Rota bureau
NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain — Some call it the "floating potato." Landlubbers have dubbed it the "vomit comet."
Officially, it’s the Joint Venture High-Speed Vessel, or HSV-X1 for short.
Whatever you call it, it could be the future in troop transport for the Navy, Marine Corps and the Army. The U.S. military is evaluating the Australian-designed catamaran ferry to move troops, heavy vehicles and equipment.
Members of the Rota-based Marine Corps Security Force Company Europe got a chance to test drive the 313-foot experimental ship last month. A crew of about 40 sailors from Little Rock, Ark., actually drove the ship.
If the Pentagon likes what it sees, the company could be among the first to receive a vessel. The company recently took on duties as a quick-response, anti-terrorism security force and could probably use the ship in various operations, from pier security to ship protection.
After a 35-day tour on the catamaran, Sgt. Josh Stueve was impressed by what he saw.
"I think it could probably be a valuable resource whatever it’s going to be used for here," he said. "It’s quick."
Without a heavy load, the ship can travel 48 knots, or 50 mph. It can cross the Atlantic Ocean in about two days. With a full load of troops and equipment, it can still reach about 38 knots.
During a NATO exercise last month, Cpl. Sean Manraksa said they were "doing circles around the other ships."
The ship also has plenty of room. During another practice run, Marines fit 30 light-armored vehicles inside the catamaran’s deck. In addition to a 45-member crew, the ship has a seating capacity for 363 people.
Toward the boat’s stern is a helicopter deck big enough for a SH-60 Seahawk or a CH-46 Sea Knight.
Inside, it looks just like any commercial ferry boat. In fact, that is what most of the HSVs are used for in the private sector.
It has plush, blue seats, a snack bar and small kitchen. There is room to sleep about 50 people but sleeping quarters could be added.
Although it looks comfortable, Marines said it is no joy ride in rough seas. On their return to Rota, they encountered waves 15 feet high. More than half of the Marines got sick — thus earning the name "vomit comet."
"It’s definitely a fast vessel," said Capt. T.R. Crellin, leader of the 2nd Platoon. "But it doesn’t take rough sees that well. I’ll tell you that."
Chances are that if the Pentagon buys a few HSV’s from Incat Tasmania, military engineers will make a few modifications to boost its defenses measures and possibly squeeze in more equipment or troops. So far, the ship has already received high marks from enlisted personnel to generals.
The military has a two-year contract with Incat for one of the catamarans for up to two years. During that time the services are seeing whether they like it.
After the Marines in Rota are finished with the ship, the Army will borrow the catamaran for its test drive next month.
Cpl. Joshua Durant liked what he saw and hopes it joins the Navy’s fleet of warships.
"With a few modifications, it could be a pretty good ship," he said.
More here:
Little Rock is famous for centuries of nautical accomplishments.
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