USNS Sioux (T-ATF-171)

• Class and Role: USNS Sioux (T-ATF-171) was a Powhatan-class fleet ocean tug operated by the United States Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), designed for towing, salvage, and rescue operations. • Namesake: The ship was named after the Sioux Native American tribe, continuing the Navy tradition of naming tugs after Native American peoples. • Launch and Commission: Sioux was laid down on April 1, 1978, launched on June 15, 1979, and delivered to the Navy on May 1, 1981. • Design Features: The ship was 225 feet long, had a beam of 42 feet, and could tow ships significantly larger than itself, thanks to its powerful 4,500 shaft horsepower engines. • Multi-Mission Capabilities: Sioux was equipped for firefighting, salvage, rescue, and limited diving operations, making it a versatile asset for the Navy. • Humanitarian Missions: Sioux participated in several humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including assisting after typhoons and natural disasters in the Pacific region. • Salvage Operations: Sioux was involved in major salvage missions, such as towing damaged ships, recovering downed aircraft, and assisting in the recovery of sunken vessels, including supporting the salvage of the USS Missouri (BB-63) when it ran aground in 1994. • Notable Tow Jobs: Sioux towed a wide variety of ships, barges, and floating dry docks, including assisting in the movement of decommissioned ships to scrap yards or museums. • Deactivation: USNS Sioux was taken out of active service and placed in reserve in 2021, after four decades of service, and was considered for transfer to foreign navies or other agencies. • Final Honors: Sioux earned multiple awards and commendations for her crew and service, reflecting her vital role in both peacetime and contingency operations for the U.S. Navy.