At the end of 2010, South Shields-based Solar Solve Marine secured two important contracts for the supply of sunblinds for ships destined for the U.S. Navy support vessels operating under the Military Sealift Command (MSC).
The orders included SOLASAFE roller screens for the navigation bridge windows of the USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE-10) and the USNS Rappahannock (T-AO-204), both of which operate in demanding maritime environments where visibility and crew safety are critical.
SOLASAFE Installation on USNS Charles Drew
The first order covered 29 SOLASAFE roller screens for the USNS Charles Drew, one of the U.S. Navy’s Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition support ships.
Built by National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, California, the vessel was delivered to the Military Sealift Command in July 2010. Designed for long-range logistical support operations, the ship is equipped to transport cargo, fuel, ammunition, and supplies to naval fleets worldwide.
Key vessel specifications include:
- Length of 689 feet
- Beam of 106 feet
- Range of 14,000 nautical miles
- Capacity for civilian mariners, military personnel, and helicopter support teams
Enhancing Visibility and Crew Protection
The installed sunblinds for ships are designed to improve navigation bridge conditions by reducing solar glare, infrared radiation, and ultraviolet exposure.
Key operational benefits include:
- Improved readability of navigation displays
- Reduced eye strain for bridge personnel
- Enhanced outward visibility during operations
- Lower air conditioning power demand onboard
These features contribute to both operational efficiency and crew comfort during long deployments.
Repeat Order for USNS Rappahannock
The second order involved 21 SOLASAFE screens for the USNS Rappahannock, a Henry J. Kaiser-class underway replenishment oiler operating within the Naval Auxiliary Force.
This vessel had previously received SOLASAFE installations in 2001, and the new order was placed to replace the original systems after years of successful service beyond their initial guarantee period.
The repeat order highlights the long-term durability and reliability of the products in harsh naval operating environments.
Operational Importance in Naval Environments
Both support vessels regularly operate in hazardous weather conditions and high-risk operational zones where visibility is essential for safe navigation and logistical coordination.
The retractable screen design allows bridge personnel to instantly adjust protection levels depending on changing environmental conditions, ensuring flexibility during operations at sea.
In addition to glare reduction, the systems also help create a more comfortable onboard environment by controlling heat and light exposure.
Long-Term Performance and Industry Trust
SOLASAFE systems are widely recognized in the marine industry for their reliability, adaptability, and operational value across naval, offshore, and commercial sectors.
The continued use of these systems on U.S. Navy support vessels demonstrates the importance of effective bridge visibility solutions in maintaining safe and efficient maritime operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are sunblinds for ships used for?
They are used to reduce solar glare, heat, and UV exposure on navigation bridge windows to improve visibility and crew comfort.
2. Why were SOLASAFE screens installed on U.S. Navy vessels?
To improve navigation safety, reduce eye strain, and enhance operational efficiency during naval support missions.
3. Can the screens be adjusted during operations?
Yes, the retractable design allows personnel to quickly adjust the screens based on changing weather and light conditions.
4. Do sunblinds for ships help reduce onboard heat?
Yes, they help reduce solar heat gain, lowering the demand on air conditioning systems onboard.
