US Navy Welcomes New Fleet Replenishment Oiler: USNS Lucy Stone
The US Navy has officially accepted the USNS Lucy Stone, the fifth vessel in the John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oilers, from General Dynamics NASSCO. The delivery took place on December 16, following successful sea trials that confirmed the ship’s readiness and operational capabilities. This addition enhances the Navy’s ability to support carrier strike groups with essential fuel supplies while at sea.
Enhanced Capabilities for At-Sea Operations
The USNS Lucy Stone is designed to play a crucial role in the Navy’s logistics and operational support. Capable of carrying 162,000 barrels of jet fuel, diesel fuel, and lubricating oil, the oiler also has the capacity to transport a significant amount of dry cargo. This versatility is vital for sustaining naval operations, particularly for carrier strike groups that require constant replenishment during missions.
John Lighthammer, the program manager for auxiliary and special mission shipbuilding, emphasized the importance of this delivery. He stated, “The delivery of USNS Lucy Stone will provide our fleet with another oiler, enhancing our replenishment underway and direct fueling capabilities.” This new vessel will be operated by civilian mariners from the Military Sealift Command, who are essential for maintaining the Navy’s operational readiness at sea.
The construction of additional oilers is already underway, with four more vessels—Sojourner Truth, Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Harriet Tubman—currently being built. Furthermore, two additional oilers are under contract, contributing to a total of 20 planned vessels in this class. Many of these ships are named after notable civil rights figures, reflecting a commitment to honoring significant contributions to social justice.
However, the program has faced some controversy. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently changed the name of the second ship from Harvey Milk, a prominent figure in the gay rights movement, to Oscar V. Peterson, a Medal of Honor recipient. This decision sparked discussions about the naming conventions for military vessels and the representation of diverse historical figures.
As the US Navy continues to modernize its fleet, the USNS Lucy Stone stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance maritime logistics and operational capabilities, ensuring that naval forces remain prepared for any challenge at sea.
