The U.S. Navy announced it has accepted delivery of the leading vessel of the new fleet of oilers for replenishment, USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205) constructed in the United States by General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego.
The delivery of T-AO205 on the 26th of July is the result of the acceptance Trials in conjunction with the Naval Board of Inspection and Survey to assess the capability and readiness of the vessel as well as to verify the specifications.
“USNS John Lewis will provide much needed capability to the fleet as the primary fuel pipeline at sea,” said John Lighthammer, program manager, Auxiliary and Special Mission Shipbuilding Program Office. “This is the first of a 20-ship class providing the Sailors and merchant mariners another tool to support at-sea operations.”
The T-AOs of the John Lewis class will be managed through Military Sealift Command to provide diesel fuel, lubricating oils, small amounts of frozen and fresh provisions, stores, and potable drinking water for Navy vessels at sea, as well as jet fuel to aircraft. The new T-AOs will provide capabilities to the navy’s Combat Logistics Force and become the core of fuel delivery.
NASSCO is currently producing for USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206), USNS Earl Warren (T-AO 207) and USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO 208)). Future USNS Lucy Stone (T-AO 209) and USNS Sojourner Truth (T-AO 209) are currently under contract.
