Damaged Navy Frigate Transported From Gulf By Heavylift Ship

The mine-damaged U.S. Navy frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG- 58) was recently loaded onto the heavylift vessel Mighty Servant 2 at Dubai, United Arab Emirates, for transport back to the U.S. for repairs.

According to Dutch company Wijsmuller Transport, who operates the Mighty Servant 2, the U.S. Navy selected dry transport of the frigate because of the method's safety and speed. Because of the severe hull damage sustained by the frigate when she struck a mine in the Persian Gulf, a wet tow would have been risky. On board the Mighty Servant 2, the keel of the USS Samuel B. Roberts is completely supported and she is not exposed to the battering forces of the sea.

Following her loading, welders secured the USS Samuel B. Roberts to the deck of the Mighty Servant 2 by seafastenings, so that the vessel would not shift during the 7,800 nautical mile voyage.

During the voyage, the Mighty Servant 2 will provide the frigate with water and electricity, so that the frigate's 40-man crew can per- form some maintenance during the trip.

Wijsmuller operates a fleet of eight semisubmersible heavylift vessels and has extensive experience in transporting large, heavy and awkward cargoes such as drill rigs, dredging equipment, floating plants, etc.

For free literature detailing Wijsmuller's services, Circle 63 on Reader Service Card

Maritime Reporter Magazine, page 30, Sep 1988

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Maritime Reporter

First published in 1881 Maritime Reporter is the world's largest audited circulation publication serving the global maritime industry.