US government commissions two more seafarer-training ships

Philly Shipyard has been tapped to build two more merchant marine academy training vessels, bringing the total to four.

The US Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration said on Tuesday that it authorised construction of the two National Security Multi-Mission Vessels (NSMVs), one for Maine Maritime Academy and the other for Texas A&M Maritime Academy.

"The NSMV is part of a strategy to bolster maritime education, revitalise US shipbuilding, and provide a much-needed shot in the arm to the US maritime industry,” said MarAd head Doug Burnett, who took over as head of the agency after former administrator Mark Buzby stepped down.