New 525-Foot Training Ship, Patriot State, Arrives at MMA for Cadet Training

BUZZARDS BAY – The Massachusetts Maritime Academy MMA has officially taken custody of its new training ship, the Patriot State, from the United States Maritime Administration.

The transfer was completed on October 10, with a ceremony held the following day, where U.S. Maritime Administration Rear Admiral Ann Phillips signed over the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel to MMA and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The Patriot State, a 525-foot-long vessel built by Philly Shipyard, is designed to serve as a state-of-the-art training platform for America’s state maritime academies.

The ship features eight classrooms, a full training bridge, laboratory spaces, and an auditorium, capable of training up to 600 cadets at sea.

“These amazing vessels will train the next generation of mariners and help address the current mariner shortage, supporting our nation’s economy and readiness in times of conflict,” said Rear Admiral Francis McDonald.

Congressman William Keating emphasized the importance of the marine industry, which accounts for 90% of global trade and 650,000 jobs in the U.S., stating that the ship will ensure the nation remains competitive in the global arena.

The Patriot State replaces the academy’s former training ship, the T.S. Kennedy, which served for many years and was extended for one additional Sea Term last spring. Originally expected last winter, the arrival of the Patriot State was delayed due to shipyard issues.

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