High-speed aluminum catamarans designed to rapidly move troops and cargo into difficult-to-reach ports. With a top speed of 35 knots and shallow draft, EPFs offer a unique MSC experience with small crews and high pay.
The T-EPF class vessel is an Expeditionary Fast Transport designed to quickly move troops and cargo into difficult-to-reach ports. Built by Austal, the EPF has sparked controversy for several reasons. Although these ships have impressive capabilities, they have faced many maintenance issues, resulting in a lackluster service history.
With a top speed of 35 knots (40 MPH), a shallow draft, a stern ramp, a mission bay, and seating for 312 troops, the EPF can quickly enter a port, unload people and equipment without the need for tugs, and return to sea. However, despite their potential, their performance has often fallen short.
Unlike other MSC ships, EPFs are made of aluminum with a catamaran-shaped hull. While lightweight and fast, this has raised concerns about structural integrity.
The twin-hull design enables high speeds but does not perform well in rough seas, making EPFs dependent on good weather conditions.
With water jet propulsion and shallow draft, EPFs can enter ports independently without tug assistance.
All crew must complete a safety course. Licensed Officers need additional IMO High-Speed Craft (HSC) Code certification.
Training typically offered at Training Center Hampton Roads includes classroom, simulator time, testing, and at-sea qualification period.
Safety course can be taught onboard during the first week if the Chief Engineer is qualified to instruct.
4 x MTU 20V8000 M71L Diesel Engines with 4 Wartsila WLD 1400 SR Water Jets. Over 48,000 horsepower total.
No embarked helicopter or hangar, but capable of receiving CH-53K helicopters on the flight deck.
EPFs operate with small crews compared to other MSC vessels. The small team dynamic means crew relationships significantly impact the quality of the assignment.
Crew Dynamic: If the crew all gets along, it can be a great assignment. If there are a few bad apples, it can ruin the bunch.
Due to maintenance issues, limited use cases, and the current manning crisis, many EPFs are being sent into ROS. However, Section 1018 of the 2024 NDAA prohibits using funds to place EPFs into ROS.
"None of the funds authorized to be appropriated...may be used to place an expeditionary fast transport vessel into a reduced operating status." - NDAA Section 1018
Austal and the Navy are developing a modified T-EPF (Expeditionary Medical Ship) to fulfill the Navy's medical mission. Instead of the 312 troop seating, EMS vessels will have a medical suite, allowing medical platforms to enter more austere environments than the large T-AH hospital ships.
Some believe this is a form of government subsidy to Austal to keep US shipbuilding capacity alive, despite the EPF's challenges.
The NDAA requires the Chief of Naval Operations to develop a strategy for EPF use in US Indo-Pacific Command operations.
CIVMARs have mixed views on EPFs. The trade-offs are significant and depend heavily on personal priorities.
Bottom Line: If you prefer to stay home and earn good pay, EPFs can be a good option—provided you are comfortable with the trade-offs.
Information compiled from MSC sources and mariner experiences. Details may vary by vessel and operational status.
