USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205) sits pierside at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD). (Image source: DVIDS)
As the US Navymodernizes its fleet, the time has come for the venerable Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oilers to make way for the advanced and capable John Lewis class. With enhanced fuel capacity, cargo storage, and speed capabilities, these new vessels are poised to take naval logistics and replenishment operations to new heights.
In this article, we explore the remarkable features and advancements offered by the JohnLewis class and its role as a vital asset in sustaining naval operations, including USN carrier strike groups, amphibious ready groups, and other surface forces.
Preceding Henry J. Kaiser-Class
The development and design of USN’s newest replenishment oiler represents a significant milestone in evolving naval logistics capabilities. While still in good shape to serve, the need for a new fleet of oiler ships arose as the US Navy recognized the limitations of the aging Henry J. Kaiser class. The growing demands of modern naval operations, coupled with advancements in technology and evolving mission requirements, necessitated a more capable and versatile replenishment vessel.
The new generation of replenishment oilers will retain some capabilities similar to its predecessor, with an improved emphasis on fuel capacity and cargo-carrying capabilities. Speed and efficiency were also included while integrating sustainable and environmentally friendly features. Furthermore, lessons learned from the Henry J. Kaiser class and other fleet replenishment vessels provided valuable insights into operational challenges, maintenance requirements, and crew accommodations.
The amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), left, conducts a replenishment at sea with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187) in the Pacific Ocean, 2012. (Image source: DVIDS)
The US Navy has set its sights on procuring 20 TAO-205-class oilers as part of the JohnLewis or TAO-205 program, paying tribute to the late American civil rights leader, John Robert Lewis. These oilers are essential for supporting naval operations by providing fuel and logistical support to the fleet.
The estimated cost for each TAO-205-class ship is approximately $650 million when procured at a rate of two ships per year. The price may slightly increase if the procurement rate decreases to one ship per year. The affordability of these vessels plays a crucial role in ensuring the Navy’s ability to acquire an adequate fleet of oilers to meet operational demands. The funding for the initial two ships, estimated at $1.05 billion, was approved in 2016 and 2018, respectively, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to progressing with the program.
In June 2016, the US Navy awarded General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding (NASSCO) a block-buy contract for the detailed design and construction (DD&C) of the first six TAO-205-class ships. This contract ensured that the program advanced to the construction phase, solidifying the partnership between the Navy and NASSCO.
The subsequent eight ships are planned for procurement between 2019 and 2023, as the Navy aims to gradually expand its fleet of TAO-205-class oilers. The remaining vessels will be procured over a longer timeline, with the program set to acquire all 20 replenishment oilers by 2048.
As the US Navymodernizes its fleet, the time has come for the venerable Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oilers to make way for the advanced and capable John Lewis class. With enhanced fuel capacity, cargo storage, and speed capabilities, these new vessels are poised to take naval logistics and replenishment operations to new heights.
In this article, we explore the remarkable features and advancements offered by the JohnLewis class and its role as a vital asset in sustaining naval operations, including USN carrier strike groups, amphibious ready groups, and other surface forces.
Preceding Henry J. Kaiser-Class
The development and design of USN’s newest replenishment oiler represents a significant milestone in evolving naval logistics capabilities. While still in good shape to serve, the need for a new fleet of oiler ships arose as the US Navy recognized the limitations of the aging Henry J. Kaiser class. The growing demands of modern naval operations, coupled with advancements in technology and evolving mission requirements, necessitated a more capable and versatile replenishment vessel.
The new generation of replenishment oilers will retain some capabilities similar to its predecessor, with an improved emphasis on fuel capacity and cargo-carrying capabilities. Speed and efficiency were also included while integrating sustainable and environmentally friendly features. Furthermore, lessons learned from the Henry J. Kaiser class and other fleet replenishment vessels provided valuable insights into operational challenges, maintenance requirements, and crew accommodations.
The amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), left, conducts a replenishment at sea with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187) in the Pacific Ocean, 2012. (Image source: DVIDS)
The US Navy has set its sights on procuring 20 TAO-205-class oilers as part of the JohnLewis or TAO-205 program, paying tribute to the late American civil rights leader, John Robert Lewis. These oilers are essential for supporting naval operations by providing fuel and logistical support to the fleet.
The estimated cost for each TAO-205-class ship is approximately $650 million when procured at a rate of two ships per year. The price may slightly increase if the procurement rate decreases to one ship per year. The affordability of these vessels plays a crucial role in ensuring the Navy’s ability to acquire an adequate fleet of oilers to meet operational demands. The funding for the initial two ships, estimated at $1.05 billion, was approved in 2016 and 2018, respectively, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to progressing with the program.
In June 2016, the US Navy awarded General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding (NASSCO) a block-buy contract for the detailed design and construction (DD&C) of the first six TAO-205-class ships. This contract ensured that the program advanced to the construction phase, solidifying the partnership between the Navy and NASSCO.
The subsequent eight ships are planned for procurement between 2019 and 2023, as the Navy aims to gradually expand its fleet of TAO-205-class oilers. The remaining vessels will be procured over a longer timeline, with the program set to acquire all 20 replenishment oilers by 2048.
Design Innovations and Technological Advancements
Engineers prioritized advancements in fuel capacity to enable extended operations and reduce the need for frequent refueling. The John Lewis-class replenishment oilers were designed to carry an impressive 156,000 barrels of oil, including biofuels, significantly surpassing the capabilities of their predecessors. This expanded capacity ensures enhanced operational flexibility and mission readiness.
Cargo-carrying capabilities were also a focal point during the design process. The vessels were equipped with spacious storage areas capable of transporting various types of dry cargo and frozen stores. This flexibility allows for the efficient transport of provisions, spare parts, and ammunition, enabling the vessels to act as a critical logistics hub for naval forces.
The John Lewis-class replenishment oilers were designed to improve operational efficiency with increased speed and maneuverability. Operating at 20 knots, these vessels can keep pace with the fleet, reducing the time required for replenishment operations and minimizing disruptions to ongoing missions.
Sustainability and environmental considerations played a vital role in the design philosophy of the John Lewis-class replenishment oilers. To minimize their ecological impact, these vessels incorporate advanced fuel-efficient propulsion systems, waste management systems, and environmentally friendly technologies. These features align with the Navy’s commitment to environmental stewardship and support efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of naval operations.
The ship class integrates state-of-the-art technology to optimize performance and efficiency. Advanced propulsion systems, navigation aids, and communication equipment enable seamless coordination with other naval assets. Automation and remote monitoring capabilities reduce crew workload and enhance operational safety. Furthermore, each class ship is armed with a close-in weapon system (CIWS) or SeaRAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) for self-protection. There is also an option to fit the Anti-Torpedo Defense System (ATTDS) to safeguard against torpedoes. Integrating these modern technologies ensures streamlined operations and enhances the overall effectiveness of the replenishment oilers.
Below are the newest replenishment oilers under the John Lewis-class fleet.
Aut Viam Inventam Aut Faciam (I Will Find a Way or I Will Make One)
Status: Christened
Currently Under Construction
USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO-208)
USNS Lucy Stone (T-AO-209)
On Order
USNS Sojourner Truth (T-AO-210)
USNS Thurgood Marshall (T-AO-211)
USNS Ruth Bader Ginsburg (T-AO-212)
Unnamed (T-AO-213)
The US Navy’s newest replenishment oiler ship represents a cutting-edge solution to sustain naval operations across the world’s oceans. From their advanced design and enhanced fuel capacity to their multi-mission capabilities and sustainable operations, these vessels exemplify the Navy’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and global maritime security. As the demands on naval forces evolve, the JohnLewis-class replenishment oiler continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining the readiness and operational effectiveness of the US Navy and its allies.
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