National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO, USA), has received a $630 million contract from BP for the construction of three double-hull tankers for the carriage of crude oil from Valdez (Alaska) to U.S. West Coast ports. Tankers will incorporate the latest, proven technology in environmental protection, ship navigation, and cargo control systems.

The design will put strong emphasis on environmental safety, including redundant diesel-electric propulsion systems in independent engine rooms, two propellers, and twin rudders. The new 185,000 DWT double-hull design will have a length of 287 meters (941 feet), and a beam of 50 meters (164 feet). Capacity will be approximately 1.3 million barrels at a design draft of 18.75 meters (61.5 feet).

Construction on the first ship will begin in early 2002 with the first delivery in the fourth quarter of 2003, and subsequent deliveries in late 2004 and 2005. The contract includes options for three additional vessels.