Function: Seven ammunition ships provide logistic support to U.S. Navy ships at sea.





History: The USNS Kilauea was the first ship of the Kilauea class ammunition ship to be transferred to Military Sealift Command Oct. 1, 1980. Flint was transferred in August 1995, Butte in June 1996, Kiska in August 1996 and Mount Baker in December 1996. The USNS Shasta (T-AE 33) was transferred Oct. 1, 1997. The USNS Santa Barbara (TAE 28) transferred to MSC's operation on September 30, 1998. Ships undergo a civilian modification overhaul during which accommodations are improved, main armament taken out and ships outfitted for reduced crewing by MSC. Seven UNREP stations are operational: four port, three starboard.





Description: Ammunition ships operated by Military Sealift Command provide underway replenishment of all types of ammunition via connected replenishment and vertical replenishment methods. Additionally, these ships will frequently assist with the transfer of ammunition between weapons storage and maintenance facilities worldwide.





General Characteristics, Kilauea Class



Builders:

General Dynamics, Quincy and Ingalls Shipbuilding





Power Plant:

Three Foster-Wheeler boilers; 600 psi (42.3kg/cm2); 8700F (4670C); one GE turbine, 22,000 hp (16.4 MW); one shaft





Length, Overall:

564 feet (171.91 meters)







Beam:

81 feet (24.69 meters)







Displacement:

9,340 long tons (9,489.89 metric tons) light; 19, 940 long tons (20,260 metric tons) full load





Speed:

20 knots (23.02 mph, 37.05 kph)





Crew:

125 civilians, plus 24 naval personnel, including a helicopter detachment





Aircraft:

Two UH-46E Sea Knight helicopters (cargo normally embarked)











Ships:

USNS Prevail (T-AGOS 8)

USNS Assertive (T-AGOS 9)

USNS Bold (T-AGOS 12)