Florida defence shipbuilder kicks off second phase of major infrastructure improvements

The Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has commenced phase two of a significant infrastructure improvement project at its Nelson Street government shipbuilding facility in Panama City, Florida.

The second phase includes the construction of 1,000 linear feet (304.8 linear metres) of additional bulkhead and berthing space, installation of associated heavy weather mooring infrastructure, the extension of the launch facility by 120 feet (36.5 feet) to increase the total launch way length to over 500 feet (152.4 metres), and the final dredging of vessel berthing spaces and the shipyard turning basin.

ESG said these enhancements will significantly increase the company's capability to construct and deliver multiple ships per year, supporting future US Department of Defense shipbuilding goals.

The addition of 1,000 linear feet of bulkhead will provide ESG with more berthing space to better support construction programs that require multiple vessel deliveries per year. The extension of the launch way by 120 feet will enable ESG's Nelson Street government shipyard to accommodate larger vessels more than 500 feet, expanding its capacity to construct a variety of ships to meet the evolving needs of the US Navy and other government agencies.

ESG expects the project to be completed in the summer of 2025.