Fairbanks Morse Engine, an EnPro Industries company, will install low load upgrade kits on the LSD - 41/49 class of U.S. Navy ships following a $4 million federal spending plan secured by Wisconsin Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin. At a press conference at Fairbanks Morse headquarters, Baldwin said,
The decision to upgrade the engines is based on a successful proof-of-concept trial of low load upgrade kits on the U.S.S. Oak Hill (LSD-51) for its Fairbanks Morse Opposed Piston (OP) engines that provide ship electrical service. Additionally, the U.S.Coast Guard has been successfully operating with the engine upgrades since 2004 on the Katmai Bay (WTGB 101) and the Penobscot
Bay (WTGB 107). The upgrade kit extends the service life of the engines, while at the same time reducing emissions and lowering lube oil and fuel consumption rates. This technology will result in substantial cost savings and increased reliability for the U.S. Navy.