USNS BIG HORN (T-AO-198)

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About USNS BIG HORN (T-AO-198)

USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) is a Henry J. Kaiser-class underway replenishment oiler operated by the United States Navy’s Military Sealift Command. Launched on 7 July 1992 and delivered in 1992, Big Horn has played a vital role in supporting fleet operations by delivering fuel and supplies to U.S. Navy ships at sea. The vessel has participated in numerous exercises and operations, including deployments to the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern waters. Throughout its service, USNS Big Horn has contributed significantly to maintaining the Navy’s operational readiness and global reach by ensuring sustained maritime logistics support.

Unit Members

Michael Shaw

U.S. Navy (1991-1996)

USNS BIG HORN (T-AO-198)View Profile

Lacheta Saul

U.S. Navy

USNS BIG HORN (T-AO-198)View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About USNS BIG HORN (T-AO-198)

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Fleet Oiler Role: USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) is a Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler, providing underway replenishment of fuel, oil, and supplies to U.S. Navy ships at sea. • Namesake: The ship is named after the Big Horn River, which flows through Wyoming and Montana, commemorating the famous 1876 Battle of the Little Bighorn. • Launched in 1991: USNS Big Horn was launched on 2 November 1991 and delivered to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) on 21 May 1992. • Large Capacity: The ship can carry over 180,000 barrels of fuel, enabling it to support carrier strike groups for extended operations. • Civilian-Manned: Like other MSC ships, USNS Big Horn is crewed by civilian mariners with a small contingent of Navy personnel for communications and security. • Multiple Deployments: The Big Horn has supported operations in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Middle East, and Pacific, including Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. • Underway Replenishment: The ship can conduct connected replenishment (CONREP) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP), using both hoses and helicopters to resupply ships at sea. • Environmental Upgrades: The vessel features double hull construction, which helps prevent oil spills, aligning with modern environmental protection standards. • Rescue and Humanitarian Missions: In addition to fueling operations, USNS Big Horn has participated in humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions, delivering supplies where needed. • Active Status: As of 2024, the USNS Big Horn remains active, continuing its vital support role within the U.S. Navy’s global operations.