2 Expeditionary Fast Transports Make Progress

The U.S. Navy has attained milestones on two new Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transports, according to a release by the Naval Sea Systems Command.

On Jan. 18, the keel was authenticated for the City of Bismarck (EPF-9), and fabrication began for the 11th ship in the class, the Puerto Rico.

The laying of the keel marks the formal beginning of construction of a ship. The start of fabrication signifies the procurement of materials and components and the shipyard's ability...