NOAA Surveyor Ship Construction Begins With Keel Laying Ceremony

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is set to commence construction of its latest charting and mapping vessel, the Surveyor, with a keel-laying ceremony scheduled for August 14 in Louisiana. This significant event marks the official start of a project aimed at enhancing NOAA’s ocean mapping capabilities, particularly in Alaska. The Surveyor is expected to be completed by 2027, followed by its sister ship, the Navigator, which is slated for delivery in 2028.

Strengthening NOAA’s Fleet for Future Challenges

The Surveyor will be based in Ketchikan, Alaska, significantly boosting NOAA’s capacity for ocean mapping and nautical charting in the region and beyond. This new addition will join NOAA’s existing fleet of 15 vessels, which are dedicated to charting, mapping, and fisheries operations. These vessels operate under an unarmed officer corps that focuses on research, navigation, safety, and marine resource management, akin to military operations but with a scientific emphasis.

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In addition to the Surveyor and Navigator, NOAA is also constructing two other deep-sea vessels, the Oceanographer and the Discoverer, which are projected to launch in 2026. Together, these four new ships will replace older vessels, addressing the fleet’s aging average of 30 years as of 2023. With six of NOAA’s current ships expected to retire by 2030, this construction initiative is crucial for maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the agency can effectively respond to ecological and maritime safety challenges.

Investment in American Shipbuilding and Technology

The construction of the Surveyor and Navigator is being carried out by Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors in Houma, Louisiana, under a substantial $624.6 million contract. This agreement also includes provisions for NOAA to commission two additional vessels, contingent on future federal budget approvals. The new ships will feature advanced sonar navigation systems and laboratory facilities designed for real-time data collection at sea, enhancing NOAA’s ability to produce accurate nautical charts vital for shipping, fishing, and environmental monitoring.

By investing in domestic shipbuilding, NOAA not only supports American jobs but also fosters technological innovation in marine science. The upcoming keel-laying ceremony will bring together NOAA representatives, shipbuilders, and local officials to celebrate the launch of this long-anticipated project, marking a significant step forward in NOAA’s mission to safeguard marine resources and ensure maritime safety.