The Avondale Deepwater Alliance includes Avondale as the prime contractor, Boeing, DAI, Inc., John J. McMullen Associates, Inc., and Raytheon Systems Company. At the conclusion of the 16 month Phase I portion of the project, the Coast Guard will have a plan for the acquisition, outfitting and maintenance of its resources within an integrated deepwater system.

After the evaluation of the Phase I proposals, the Coast Guard will move into Phase II during which time the contracting teams will refine their proposals. The Coast Guard currently plans to award the final deepwater contract in February 2002 and commence a decade long effort, valued at approximately $8.0 - $10.0 billion, to replace between 30 and 40 multipurpose high and medium endurance cutters, fixed and rotary-wing aircraft and command, control, communications and surveillance gear.

Albert L. Bossier, Jr. President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "The award of this Phase I contract is indicative of the Coast Guard’s confidence in the Avondale Alliance to produce an innovative plan to address its multi-mission requirements in the 21st century."

Avondale was informed of the award by its Congressional delegation including House Appropriations Committee Chairman Bob Livingston (R-LA), William Jefferson (D-LA) and Billy Tauzin (R-LA).

Avondale Industries, Inc., headquartered in metro New Orleans designs, builds and overhauls both military and commercial ships.