BAE Systems Opens $250m US Shipyard Upgrade Facilities

BAE Systems has celebrated the official opening of a new shiplift and land-level repair complex that has tripled capacity at its shipyard in Jacksonville, Florida.

The $250 million upgrade at BAE Systems Jacksonville Ship Repair (JSR) was officially opened at a special ceremony at the facility, which sits about two miles off the Atlantic seaboard up the St. Johns River.

The new shiplift complex, which has increased dry-docking capacity at JSR from two large-hulled ships to up to six vessels simultaneously, enables boats displacing up to 25,000 tons to be raised out of the water, then transported via Self Propelled Modular Transport to the site’s new land-level facility. 

As per a recent company press statement, the shiplift system’s platform is almost 500 feet long and just over 100 feet wide, making it one of the ten largest shiplift systems in the world and the largest in the Americas. It was constructed alongside partners Pearlson Shiplift Corporation, Foth Engineering, and Kiewit Infrastructure South Co.

The recent ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the complex’s official opening was attended by about 500 people, including Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jim Kilby.

At the event BAE Systems President and CEO Tom Arseneault commented: “Today marks an important milestone as we celebrate the completion of a world-class ship repair facility upgrade here in Florida.

“The introduction of our new shiplift and land level repair facility represents more than just progress for BAE Systems Ship Repair — it reflects a shared commitment to innovation, growth and collaboration.” 

He added: “Together with the United States Navy, and other key industry partners that depend on this port, we are building a stronger foundation for the future, to help maintain our maritime superiority.”

Admiral Kilby commented: “From my vantage point, this shiplift and land level facility is contributing to the national movement that is making America safer and more secure.” 

He went on: “It's a necessary element to forging a defense industrial base able to support, sustain and generate our fleet.”

The new JSR complex will support the maintenance and repair of Mayport-based Navy vessels and commercial ships sailing into Jacksonville. The first vessel lift at the facility is expected to take place later this month.

• You can read more details on the BAE Systems website