Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has kicked off an exciting project: the construction of a medium-class hopper dredge for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This marks a notable milestone, as it’s the first deep draft hopper dredge built for USACE in almost 50 years! Set to be delivered in 2027, this new vessel will replace the aging Dredge McFARLAND, which has been serving since 1966 and is currently based in Philadelphia. With this addition, USACE will have four oceangoing hopper dredges at its disposal.
John Primavera, Regional Business Director for USACE’s North Atlantic Division, emphasized the importance of this new dredge: “It’s essential for our navigation mission that supports maritime trade across our waterways. This not only boosts our economy but also enhances national security.”
The partnership between ESG and Royal IHC is bringing some impressive innovations to life with this vessel.It features cutting-edge automation and eco-friendly technologies. as a notable example, it boasts a diesel-electric propulsion system that complies with EPA Tier 4 and IMO Tier 3 standards—pretty impressive when you consider environmental impacts! Plus, its unique overflow system helps keep turbidity levels low.
Among its standout features is a rapid loading mechanism that can handle medium fine sand in less than 45 minutes—talk about efficiency! The high-performance pumps are designed to cut down discharge times considerably too. With an ECO Control Package included, users can expect up to a 15% boost in loading efficiency while also saving on fuel costs.
Leo van Ingen from Royal IHC highlighted how this project exceeds operational requirements set by USACE: “This collaboration showcases one of the most advanced configurations we’ve ever developed.”
In terms of size, this vessel measures about 320 feet long with a beam width of 72 feet and can hold up to an impressive 6,000 cubic yards in its hopper. When fully loaded,it will have a draft of around 25’6″ and can reach depths of up to 65 feet using its suction tube angled at 45 degrees.
Construction is actively taking place at ESG’s facilities located in Allanton and Port St. Joe. Once completed, this dredge will significantly enhance maintenance capabilities for america’s waterway infrastructure—a crucial step forward!
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