The US Navy has received the future USNS Sojourner Truth (T-AO 210), marking the transfer of the sixth vessel in its John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oiler programme from General Dynamics NASSCO.
The handover took place on 9 June in San Diego, following the completion of integrated sea trials. The future USNS Sojourner Truth was launched in April last year.
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This transfer represents the official move of the vessel from shipbuilder to Navy control.
Auxiliaries and Special Mission Ships programme manager and Auxiliaries deputy portfolio acquisition executive John Lighthammer said: “USNS Sojourner Truth’s delivery marks another significant milestone for the Navy and the John Lewis-class programme.
“This ship represents the dedication and expertise of the shipbuilders, engineers, and programme professionals who continue to deliver critical capability to the fleet.”
The addition of the future USNS Sojourner Truth follows the recent christening of the future USNS Thurgood Marshall (T-AO 211) and precedes the keel-laying ceremony for the future USNS Harriet Tubman (T-AO 213), scheduled for 18 June.
In addition to these vessels, General Dynamics NASSCO is building four more ships in the T-AO series, with contracts signed for three additional units.
Previously, the first four ships in the John Lewis-class, USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205), USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206), USNS Earl Warren (T-AO 207), and USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO 208) were delivered to the Navy.
The John Lewis-class is one of two classes within the Navy’s T-AO fleet, alongside the Henry J. Kaiser class.
These fleet replenishment oilers play a key role in transporting jet fuel, diesel, lubricating oil, provisions, potable water, and other supplies required for naval operations.
The John Lewis-class ships feature twin shaft, geared medium speed diesels with PTO/PTI generators.
They measure 227.3 metres (m) in length and 32.2m in beam, with a full load displacement of up to 49,793 metric tons for the latest models.
Each vessel can reach speeds of 20 knots and is operated by a crew of 125 to 129 civilian mariners.
Last month, General Dynamics NASSCO received $856m in funding to build T-AO 217, a John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oiler.
