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General Dynamics NASSCO signalled the start of construction of a fourth 'Eco' tanker to be built for American Petroleum Tankers at a steel cutting ceremony on Friday, May 8, at NASSCO's San Diego shipyard. U.S. Rep. Susan Davis helped signal the beginning of construction by pressing a button to cut the first piece of steel.

The vessel forms part of a five-tanker contract between General Dynamics NASSCO and American Petroleum Tankers to design, build and operate innovative and increased energy efficient and fuel-saving vessels.

NASSCO began construction on the first tanker under the current contract in September 2014.

Each of the five 50,000-deadweight-tonne (dwt) product carriers to be constructed by NASSCO are to be LNG-conversion ready and carry 330,000 barrels of cargo. With a specialized Eco design, the tankers are said to be more energy efficient and incorporate environmental protection features, including a ballast water treatment system.

"These Jones Act-qualified tankers are some of the most energy-efficient, fuel-saving and cost-effective tankers in the world. They are also instrumental in providing high-quality, good-paying jobs," commented Kevin Graney, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics NASSCO. "NASSCO is leading the way in America for designing and building new and innovative green ship technologies."

"We are very excited to be starting construction on our fourth tanker at General Dynamics NASSCO. We look forward to taking delivery of another highly fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly vessel that will provide first class service to our customers," said Rob Kurz, president of American Petroleum Tankers.

The construction and operation of the new vessels are aligned with the Jones Act, requiring ships carrying cargo between U.S. ports to be built, crewed and owned by the U.S.