About this Unit
**USNS Vanguard** (T-AGM-19) is a missile range instrumentation ship operated by the United States Navy under the Military Sealift Command. Originally built as a World War II-era cargo ship in 1945 and launched as SS *Transcolumbia*, she was later acquired and converted by the Navy in 1963 for use in the U.S. Air Force’s Missile Test Project. USNS Vanguard played a key role in tracking and collecting data for missile and space launches, particularly supporting the Apollo and Gemini programs during the height of the space race. The vessel continued in service into the 1980s, demonstrating the critical importance of maritime platforms in supporting America’s missile and space endeavors.
Historical Facts
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USNS Vanguard Designation: The USNS Vanguard (T-AGM-19) is a Missile Range Instrumentation Ship operated by the U.S. Navy through the Military Sealift Command.
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Original Purpose: The ship was originally built as a maritime cargo vessel named SS Mission San Fernando in 1944, serving in World War II as a tanker.
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Conversion to Tracking Ship: In the 1960s, the vessel was converted into a missile range instrumentation ship, equipped with advanced radar and telemetry for tracking missiles and spacecraft.
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Support for Space Missions: USNS Vanguard played a critical role in supporting NASA's Apollo and Gemini missions by providing tracking and communications coverage in remote ocean areas.
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Role in Ballistic Missile Tests: The ship was instrumental in tracking and collecting data from ballistic missile tests, supporting the development of U.S. strategic deterrence capabilities.
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Global Deployments: Vanguard operated in various oceans, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as part of the U.S. global missile tracking network.
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Technological Upgrades: Throughout its service, USNS Vanguard received multiple upgrades to its radar and communications suites, keeping it on the forefront of telemetry collection technology.
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Civilian Crew: Unlike most Navy ships, Vanguard was crewed primarily by civilian mariners under the Military Sealift Command, with only a small contingent of Navy personnel for mission operations.
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Nickname "The Big Bird": Due to the large radar dishes and its unique silhouette, the ship earned the nickname "The Big Bird" among those who served aboard her.
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Deactivation and Legacy: USNS Vanguard was taken out of service in 2014. Its long history of service in both military and space operations cements its place as a unique and versatile asset in U.S. maritime history.
