Speakers included President Lee of South Korea, Governor Josh Shapiro, Senator Todd Young, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi, MMA President Craig Johnson ‘91, and MMA Regimental Commander Odegaard Fields ’26, with former U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao serving as the ship’s sponsor

PHILADELPHIA, PA – On August 26, Maine Maritime Academy, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), Hanwha Philly Shipyard, and TOTE Services celebrated the christening of the State of Maine, the third of five cutting-edge National Security Multi-Mission Vessels (NSMV), at Hanwha Philly Shipyard. The State of Maine will serve as the next generation training ship at the Academy, supporting both the academic development of cadets and federal humanitarian relief efforts in response to natural disasters.

The TS STATE OF MAINE at dock in the Hanwha Shipyard in Philadelphia

Speakers included President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea, Governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, U.S. Senator Todd Young of Indiana, U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania, and Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Sang Yi. Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao served as the ship’s sponsor.

“State of Maine is more than a ship — it’s a strategic investment in the people and infrastructure that keep America’s maritime economy strong,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Our cadets deserve cutting-edge tools and training to become the industry leaders who will keep our nation strong and ready when it matters most. Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, American shipyards can and will produce more big, beautiful ships again.”

“This vessel marks a new era for American maritime power,” said Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi. “MARAD’s mission to modernize sealift and empower the Merchant Marine hinges on relentless innovation and partnership. Together, we can build the fleet America needs to secure our future and dominate the seas.”

“Maine Maritime Academy is internationally recognized as a leader in maritime education and this vessel represents a major step forward in our mission to train the world’s finest mariners,” said Maine Maritime Academy President Craig Johnson. “As our first purpose-built training ship, the State of Maine will provide world-class learning experiences for cadets pursuing unlimited tonnage licenses. It’s a game-changer for our mission and a powerful reflection of what’s possible through strong partnerships and shared vision.” 

Additional Information:

MARAD is replacing aging training vessels from the National Defense Reserve Fleet with new, purpose-built ships designed to meet modern academy needs—and to provide critical capabilities for disaster response and national emergencies.

Stretching 525 feet long, the State of Maine can accommodate 600 cadets and up to 1,000 people in times of humanitarian need. These vessels boast eight classrooms, cutting-edge labs, a training bridge, auditorium, helicopter pad, advanced medical facilities, and roll-on/roll-off and container capacity, ensuring cadets get unmatched hands-on training.

State of Maine joins Empire State and Patriot State already in service, with two more NSMVs under construction at Hanwha Philly Shipyard, destined for Texas and California maritime academies.

NSMV Key Specs:

• Length: 525’ 1”
• Design Draft: 21’ 4”
• Breadth: 88’ 7”
• Depth: 55’ 1.5”
• Speed: 18 knots
• Deadweight: 8,487 MT