There are five state maritime academies with training ships: New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Texas, and California. The vessels allow the students to operate a functional ship and gain sea time. Once they finish school, they are licensed and can operate US merchant vessels. These existing ships are old and getting towards the end of their useful life. Replacements have been needed for some time.

In 2017, the National Defense Authorization Act was the first step in the NSMV program. A design was selected and progress was made. In 2019, MARAD selected Tote Services to manage construction. They were also authorized to build NSMV 1 and 2, which began in 2020 at Philly Shipyard. These were to replace the Empire State (SUNY Maritime) and Patriot State (Massachusetts Maritime). By 2021, the remaining three ships were authorized and funded. This would complete the State class as the NSMV came to be known.

SUNY Maritime’s Empire State has been delivered and completed its first cruise. The Patriot State has also been delivered. Construction is underway for the last three. The keel has been laid for my alma mater’s Golden State, delivery is expected there in 2026. When all of the ships are complete, they will fill the roles of training students and the multi-mission aspect of disaster relief and humanitarian aid. This gives the United States a versatile platform to perform a variety of functions.