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T-AFS - Mars Class Combat Stores Ships

Six combat stores ships operated by Military Sealift Command provide supplies, including frozen, chilled and dry provisions, to U.S. Navy combatant ships at sea for extended periods of time.

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History

The USNS Concord (T-AFS 5) became the first of five Navy Mars class ships to be transferred to Military Sealift Command on Oct. 15, 1992. The Mars followed on Feb. 1, 1993, USNS San Diego on Aug. 11, 1993, the USNS San Jose on Nov. 2, 1993 and the USNS Niagara Falls on Sept. 23, 1994. The San Diego was deactivated on Dec. 10, 1997, and the Mars was deactivated on Feb. 12, 1998. The USNS Sirius (T-AFS 8) was transferred from the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary to MSC on Jan. 18, 1981; the USNS Spica (T-AFS 9) on Nov. 5, 1981; and the USNS Saturn (T-AFS 10) on Dec. 13, 1983.

Description

Combat stores ships provide underway replenishment of all types of supplies, ranging from repair parts to fresh food, clothing and mail via tensioned cargo rigs and UH-46 Sea Knight helicopters.