About this Unit
USS Fairfax County (LST-1193) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in September 1971. Designed to transport tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without docks, she played a crucial role in amphibious operations and training exercises throughout her service. The ship participated in numerous deployments with the Atlantic Fleet, supporting NATO operations and multinational exercises. Decommissioned in 1994, she was later transferred to the Australian Navy, where she continued service as HMAS Manoora (L 52).
Historical Facts
• Commissioning and Namesake: USS Fairfax County (LST-1193) was commissioned on 16 November 1971 and named after Fairfax County, Virginia, reflecting the tradition of naming certain LSTs after U.S. counties.
• Class and Design: She was the sixteenth ship of the Newport-class tank landing ships, notable for their bow ramp design which allowed vehicles to disembark more quickly and efficiently than previous classes.
• Vietnam War Service: USS Fairfax County participated in operations during the final stages of the Vietnam War, supporting American and allied withdrawal operations in Southeast Asia.
• Innovative Bow Ramp: The ship was equipped with a 112-foot aluminum ramp capable of supporting over 75 tons, enabling the rapid offloading of heavy vehicles directly onto beaches.
• Cold War Operations: Throughout the Cold War, she participated in numerous NATO exercises and amphibious operations, demonstrating the U.S. Navy’s rapid deployment capabilities.
• Humanitarian Missions: In addition to military roles, USS Fairfax County was involved in humanitarian assistance, including disaster relief and evacuation operations.
• Decommissioning and Transfer: The vessel was decommissioned from the U.S. Navy on 17 September 1994 and subsequently transferred to the Australian Navy, where she served as HMAS Manoora (L 52).
• Dual Service: As HMAS Manoora, the ship continued to serve with distinction, participating in peacekeeping and disaster relief missions in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Technical Innovations: The Newport-class, including Fairfax County, featured gas turbine engines for auxiliary power and a sleeker hull for higher transit speeds compared to World War II-era LSTs.
• Legacy: USS Fairfax County’s dual American and Australian service record and participation in significant 20th-century operations make her a unique example of international naval cooperation and versatility.
