US Navy Enhances Rescue Power with New Steel Rescue Ship TATS 11 by Austal USA.

According to the press release issued by Austal USA on June 14, 2025, the American shipbuilder successfully launched its first steel-hulled vessel, the future USNS Billy Frank Jr. (T-ATS 11), from its shipyard in Mobile, Alabama. This event marks a significant industrial and technological step for Austal USA, signaling both its transition to steel ship construction and the launch of its heaviest vessel to date, with a displacement of 3,100 tons. The ship is the first of three towing, salvage, and rescue units designed to enhance the U.S. Navy's maritime support capabilities.
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The T-ATS 11 reflects the Navy’s role in humanitarian, environmental, and maritime safety missions.  (Picture source: Austal USA)

Named in honor of Billy Frank Jr., a Native American Korean War veteran and a prominent figure in the defense of indigenous rights and environmental protection in the U.S. Pacific Northwest, the vessel carries both operational and symbolic relevance. The T-ATS 11 reflects the Navy’s role in humanitarian, environmental, and maritime safety missions. It is also the first steel ship produced using Austal USA’s new automated steel panel production line, marking a shift for a shipyard previously known for aluminum-hulled vessels.

Technically, the T-ATS class features a multi-mission common platform that combines the capabilities of the now-retired T-ARS 50 and T-ATF 166 classes. With 6,000 square feet of open deck space, the T-ATS 11 is built to host a wide array of modular mission systems, enabling it to support scenarios such as warship towing, salvage operations, oil spill response, humanitarian assistance, and wide-area maritime surveillance. Its modularity also allows for quick adaptation to evolving needs through the integration of mission-specific payloads and onboard support systems.

The launch was carried out using Austal USA’s established side-launch process, previously used for more than 30 U.S. Navy vessels, highlighting the yard’s experience in complex naval programs. With over 85 percent of construction completed, the ship’s next steps include engine light-off, harbor trials, and then sea trials before formal delivery to the Navy. Once operational, T-ATS 11 will serve as a key support asset in ocean towing and maritime recovery missions.

Austal USA’s move into steel shipbuilding signals a strategic shift in the U.S. industrial base, aligned with current Navy priorities emphasizing adaptable and resilient platforms for contested environments. The T-ATS program fits into this trajectory, delivering renewed logistics capabilities and expanded operational flexibility to the fleet.

The launch of the future USNS Billy Frank Jr. marks a milestone in Austal USA’s diversification efforts and contributes to strengthening the Navy’s maritime support infrastructure. With its modular design and multi-role configuration, the T-ATS 11 is positioned to provide essential support in a wide range of naval operations.