General Dynamics NASSCO received a $1.7 billion contract to construct T-AO 215 and T-AO 216 which will become the newest John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oilers. The Navy has awarded NASSCO a multi-ship contract to build T-AO 214 through T-AO 221 which continues the 20-ship program that has already delivered four ships and five more vessels are currently under construction.
The 742-foot John Lewis-class vessels operate at sea to transfer fuel and dry cargo to U.S. Navy ships which enables them to stay at sea for extended periods without needing port visits. The oilers have a fuel capacity of 162,000 barrels and they maintain a speed of 20 knots while supporting aviation operations. The class provides mobile logistics capabilities which enable carrier strike groups and amphibious forces to stay farther from shore while maintaining continuous presence in distant operational areas.
