The US Navy has awarded a significant contract to Absher Construction Company aimed at enhancing operational capabilities at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington State. The contract, valued at $22.8 million, focuses on constructing an Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV) support center. This facility will include five specialized maintenance service bay divisions, a dedicated paint booth, and a blast booth.
In addition to the base construction costs, the Navy plans to allocate another $1 million for essential furniture, fixtures, equipment, and upgrades to physical security. The project will commence with site preparation work, which includes significant groundwork such as installing structural fill in a forested area and implementing stormwater management systems.
Once the groundwork is laid, the construction will proceed to the main structure, which will be a pre-engineered metal facility. The completed center will serve as a full-service maintenance hub for AFVs, crucial for maintaining the operational readiness of the base. It will feature specialty maintenance bays, administrative offices, and a large paved area designed for vehicle receipt.
Although the specific number of AFVs stationed at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor remains undisclosed, the base hosts the Marine Corps Security Force Battalion Bangor (MCSFBn Bangor). This battalion provides essential security for the Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific, which serves as the primary maintenance, storage, and support center for the US Navy’s Pacific fleet of ballistic missile submarines.
The MCSFBn Bangor operates a variety of armored vehicles, including high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles, commonly known as Humvees, as well as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) systems and light armored vehicles. These assets play a vital role in safeguarding the battalion’s operational capabilities.
Completion of the AFV support center is projected for October 2027, with ongoing progress to be closely monitored and coordinated with the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command based in Washington, D.C. This project marks a significant investment in military infrastructure and readiness, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to maintaining its defensive capabilities in the Pacific region.
