Austal-built high-speed ferries have recently been engaged to assist in relief efforts in Japan and Libya, demonstrating the adaptability and suitability of high-speed craft in providing a rapid response to humanitarian assistance operations.
Austal’s 101 metre “WestPac Express”, which has operated as a high speed theatre support vessel with the United States Marine Corps, is currently deployed to mainland Japan to provide support for foreign humanitarian assistance operations following the devastating March 11, earthquake.
“WestPac Express” will deliver a Forward Arming and Refuelling Point (FARP) for use in the assistance operations.
A FARP is a temporary facility that allows aircraft to conduct continuous operations without having to return to an established airport to obtain fuel.
The vessel will also transport additional supplies, communications equipment and personnel to be used in the relief operations.
The involvement of “WestPac Express” in the relief efforts is the latest demonstration of large high speed aluminium catamarans assisting with humanitarian support.
Recently, Austal-built vessels “Osman Gazi”, “Orhan Gazi” and “Maria Dolores” were all deployed to assist in the evacuation of foreign citizens from Libya.
“Osman Gazi” and “Orhan Gazi” made multiple journeys between the Libyan city of Benghazi and Turkey, evacuating thousands of Turkish citizens.“Maria Dolores”, operated by Virtu Ferries, also made several rescue voyages between Tripoli, the capitol of Libya, and Malta.
The 68m vehicle-passenger ferry has the capacity to carry up to 600 passengers and 65 cars at a time, and is capable of speeds of approximately 35 knots.
Austal chief executive officer, Andrew Bellamy, commented that both the Japanese and Libyan relief operations have demonstrated the capability of fast craft in enabling a rapid response for humanitarian assistance efforts.
“While our thoughts are with those in Japan and Libya during these difficult times, we are thankful that Austal-built vessels were able to contribute to the relief operations, both through the delivery of much needed supplies, and in the case of Libya, the evacuation of thousands of foreign citizens,” Bellamy said.
“Vessels such as “Osman Gazi”, “Orhan Gazi” and “Maria Dolores”, while intended for commercial operation, are well suited for humanitarian relief operations due to their high payload, shallow draft and ability to operate at high speeds, thus enabling a fast and effective response to a crisis.”