AUGUST 5, 2013—Seattle-based naval architectural and marine engineering firm Guido Perla & Associates, Inc. (GPA) reports that construction of the oceanographic research ship AGOR 27 R/V Neil Armstrong is progressing according to plan at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) in Anacortes, WA.  A major milestone was achieved recently with the completion of the hull assembly after the stern block was set, followed by the installation of the pilot house.

DCI is building both the AGOR 27 along with its sister vessel, AGOR 28 R/V Sally Ride, which will comply with the highest safety standards and provide unprecedented capabilities for advanced oceanographic research.

After developing the Basic Design, Regulatory Design and Detail/Production Engineering for the Navy-owned, advanced oceanographic research vessel, GPA is now supporting DCI onsite throughout the construction and delivery of the 238-foot vessels.  GPA’s track record of construction projects together with DCI provides a solid foundation based on competence, practicality and understanding of government contracts and procedures coupled with well-coordinated teamwork.

“Teamwork is the ability to work together towards a common vision and to direct individual accomplishments towards organizational objectives. Working closely with DCI and equipment suppliers is the key to moving through this advanced project the way we are and achieving each milestone within the given parameters.  DCI is producing vessels of outstanding quality and together, we are meeting our timelines and are on schedule for the launch of AGOR-27 in the first quarter of 2014.” says Eric Engelbrecht, GPA’s Project Manager for these vessels.  

The delivery of the AGOR 27 is scheduled for late 2014 and the AGOR 28 in early 2015. Once completed, AGOR 27 will be operated by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, and AGOR 28 will be managed by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, LaJolla, CA, under charter party agreements with ONR. Both ships will be supporting scientists with ongoing research worldwide, including in the Atlantic, Western Pacific and Indian Ocean regions in a wide variety of missions.