Reference

Fleet replenishment ships are classified and named in a specific manner to denote their type and role within the naval fleet. Here is an overview of the classification and naming conventions for fleet replenishment ships:

Classification

1. Hull Classification Symbol

   • Fleet replenishment ships use a hull classification symbol which consists of a combination of letters and numbers to indicate their type.
   • For example, the prefix "T-AO" indicates a "Fleet Oiler."

2. Classification Codes

   • Fleet Oilers: AO
   • Replenishment Oilers: T-AO
   • Fast Combat Support Ships: T-AOE
   • Fleet Replenishment Ships: AOR

Naming Conventions

1. United States Navy

   • The U.S. Navy follows a systematic naming convention based on various criteria.
   • For example, the John Lewis-class replenishment oiler ships (T-AO 205) are named in honor of significant civil rights figures (e.g., USNS John Lewis).

   

2. Historical and Legislative Influence

   • Some ships may also be named to honor historical events or legislative acts. For instance, the Rappahannock-class oilers were named after rivers in the United States in compliance with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Navy.mil).

Examples of Fleet Replenishment Ships

• John Lewis-Class (T-AO 205):

  • These are newly designed ships to replace the Henry J. Kaiser-class tanker fleet.
  • Example: USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205)

• Kaiser-Class Fleet Oilers:

  • These ships are named after prominent historical figures.
  • Example: USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187)

• Supply-Class Fast Combat Support Ships (T-AOE):

  • Ship classification indicating their fast support capabilities.
  • Example: USNS Supply (T-AOE 6)

For further and more detailed information, you can visit resources such as Wikipedia's page on Hull Classification Symbols or Navy-specific documentation on fleet oiler programs (Navy.mil Fleet Replenishment Oilers).