High Speed Vessel modernizes naval warfare.

The High Speed Vessel (HSV) 2 Swift may be the most technologically advanced Navy vessel produced to date, with information technology capabilities that are revolutionizing naval warfare. The 294-foot, aluminum-hulled catamaran, above, has a crew of only 42 personnel, but automation compensates for the reduced manning. Nearly every function of the ship, from navigation and steering to engine and damage control, is conducted and monitored using commercial, off-the-shelf hardware and software.

In August 2003, the Military Sealift Command leased the vessel for two years, with the option of another five-year lease from Bollinger/Incat USA, LLC, Lockport, La. The HSV-2 is a modified commercial craft with a flight deck and hangar for two H-60 helicopters, a stern vehicle ramp capable of supporting an M-1 tank, communications for a wide range of missions and a load-compensating crane that can launch and recover small boats and unmanned vehicles up to 26,000 pounds. During sea trials, a fully loaded Swift topped out at speeds of more than 45 knots, transiting to a port 100 miles away in just over three hours. Currently being used as an interim mine warfare command and support ship, the HSV-2 provides versatile mission capabilities and a potential platform for future littoral combat ships.

EDITED BY WENDY LELAND