concrete elements (Appendix C). Individual modules would be fabricated 
at an appropriate CONUS coastal site where the structural and buoyant 
elements can be mass produced and assembled into basic modules prior to 
being launched and moved to a protected offshore area. Here the modules 
would be joined to constitute mid-sized and towable units for later on- 
site assembly as a functional MOBS platform. Mid-sized components could 
be designed to be either self-propelled or towed. In comparison to the 
basic module, the larger mid-sized units would be joined in final assem- 
bly on site in ambient sea-state conditions. The larger unit has addi- 
tional hydrodynamic stability (pitching, heaving and rolling) afforded 
by increased mass and larger plan area over that of the smaller basic 
module. 
@ The spectrum of logistic and operational support functions to be 
performed by an ocean basing system in any situation would be accommo- 
dated by configuring the MOBS uniquely for its mission. This may be 
achieved by outfitting each module with subassemblies or components by 
retrofit prior to combining as mobile or transportable units for later 
on-site MOBS final assembly. 
Early studies reveal three types of floating modules which may be 
considered candidates for selection as the optimal MOBS component. 
These types vary in terms of the desired operational characteristics. 
Studies performed at NCEL in the early 1970s (Appendix C with 
references), focused on the following three types of floating modules: 
(a) COLUMNAR: Single or multi-story decks supported on vertical, 
hollow buoyant columns (also called legs) or piles. 
(b) BARGE: Single or multi-story decks supported on barge-type 
hulls. 
(c) SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE: Single or multi-story decks supported on 
vertical legs atop submerged horizontal pontoons. 
27 
