The US Navy has officially christened the USNS Lansing (EPF 16), marking the culmination of the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship program. The ceremony took place at Austal’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, signifying the completion of the 16-ship fleet designed for high-speed logistics support.
Initiated in the early 2000s as part of the US Department of Defense’s initiative, this program aimed to develop fast logistics vessels that are capable of transport for company-sized military units along with their vehicles. The USNS Lansing is particularly notable as it represents the last of the Flight II configuration within the Spearhead series. This advanced design allows for versatile deployment options, functioning either in its standard transport capacity, as a Role 2 floating hospital, or combining both roles as needed.
Named after Michigan’s capital, Lansing, this ship is the first naval vessel to carry the city’s namesake, honoring its historical contribution to military equipment manufacturing since the Civil War. The christening ceremony was graced by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Representative Lisa McClain of Michigan’s 9th District, both serving as ship sponsors.
Austal USA President Michelle Kruger expressed pride in the team behind the ship, highlighting their commitment to quality and efficiency in delivering advanced vessels to the Navy. She remarked on the significance of the tradition and the honor of witnessing the completion of this key vessel in the Navy’s arsenal.
The Spearhead-class ships measure 103 meters (338 feet) in length and 29 meters (95 feet) in beam, accommodating a crew of up to 40 personnel and the capacity to transport approximately 300 troops. Designed for operational versatility, the Lansing is equipped with a landing pad capable of supporting a maritime attack helicopter comparable to the CH-53K King Stallion, along with a storage platform for another rotorcraft akin to the MH-60 Seahawk. Additionally, it features rigid-hull inflatable boats for various support missions.
For defense purposes, the USNS Lansing can be outfitted with four M2 .50-caliber heavy machine guns. Powered by four MTU 20V8000 diesel engines, the vessel can reach impressive speeds of up to 43 knots (80 km/h or 49 mph) and has a range of approximately 1,200 nautical miles (2,222 km or 1,381 miles), underscoring its operational capabilities in supporting naval operations.
