“We are proud to reach this important milestone with the unveiling of Craney Island,” said Francesco Valente, CEO of Vigor Marine Group. “This is a critical milestone for both the U.S. Army and for our skilled Vigor Marine Fabrication workforce in Vancouver, where this journey began years ago. Today reflects the dedication of our employees, suppliers and Army partners who have worked together to refine this next-generation vessel. Our goal is to support our customer’s mission by completing quality work safely, and today we celebrate achieving that on behalf of the U.S. Army.”   Vigor Marine Fabrication launched the prototype MSV(L), SSG Elroy F. Wells, in 2022, and has been working alongside the Army on testing in both the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. Craney Island reflects lessons learned over that time period, as well as expert craftsmanship from the local workforce. The program is a significant technological achievement that combines a sophisticated all-aluminum design with advanced propulsion systems and electronics to provide a first-of-its-kind capability for the U.S. Army. Because of its unique hull design, drive-through bow and stern ramps, lightweight construction and state-of-the-art waterjet propulsion, notes Vigor, MSV(L) offers significant payload carrying capability, unparalleled maneuverability, a shallow draft for littoral operations and impressive speed.   Vigor notes that the unveiling of Craney Island also highlights Vigor Marine Fabrication’s unique capability to design and construct aluminum vessels, particularly for national security capabilities. The Vancouver facility is currently in full-rate production of the MSV(L) hulls, while continuing fabrication of Combatant Craft Medium (CCM), of which it has produced more than more than 30.