YTB to ASD Conversion Program

Pacific Tugboat Service was selected by the U.S. Navy to a provide pair of converted YTB ship assist tugs on a GSA procurement. The conversion consisted of a major overhaul of systems and replacement of the entire propulsion and control system as well as major auxiliary, habitability, deck, fendering and ancillary systems. The design was based on a proven single screw to ASD conversion. The outcome was an incredible increase in ship and nuclear submarine handling capabilities for U.S. Navy Region Northwest Port Operations. At a total cost below $11 million, the pair of former YTB’s became the first U.S, Navy owned Azimuthing Stern Drive (ASD) tugs in the fleet, ever. The pilots and crews of USNRNW used the tugs to demonstrate increased levels of safety and capabilities when handling billions of dollars’ worth of ships and submarines in the region. The two tugs are still in service today.