About this Unit
USS Point Loma (AGDS-2) was a Deep Submergence Support Ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Designed to support deep-sea submersible operations, Point Loma played a crucial role in the deployment and recovery of deep submergence vehicles and rescue systems, often participating in undersea research and submarine rescue exercises. The vessel was equipped with specialized handling gear and decompression facilities to assist in complex underwater missions. After two decades of service enhancing the Navy’s undersea capabilities, USS Point Loma was decommissioned in 1993.
Historical Facts
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Origins: USS Point Loma (AGDS-2) was originally launched as the USS Point Loma (AGDS-2), a Deep Submergence Support Ship, designed to support deep submergence and special operations missions.
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Converted from a Cargo Ship: The vessel began life as the SS Charles H. Cugle, a Mariner-class cargo ship, before being acquired and converted by the US Navy for military use.
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Commissioning Date: USS Point Loma was commissioned on September 11, 1970, after an extensive conversion at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego.
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AGDS Designation: The hull classification symbol "AGDS" stands for "Auxiliary, General, Deep Submergence Support," reflecting its unique role in supporting deep-sea operations and research.
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Mother Ship Role: The ship served as the mother ship for the Navy's Deep Submergence Vehicle (DSV) program, including support for submersibles such as the Alvin and Sea Cliff.
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Submarine Rescue Missions: USS Point Loma was equipped to support submarine rescue operations, providing vital assistance and serving as a mobile base for rescue submersibles.
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Support for Project Azorian: The ship is believed to have played a logistical support role for Project Azorian, the secret CIA mission to recover the sunken Soviet submarine K-129 in the early 1970s.
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Scientific Research: Besides military missions, Point Loma also supported numerous scientific research projects, including deep ocean mapping and marine biology studies.
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Unique Onboard Facilities: The ship featured specialized equipment such as decompression chambers, heavy-lift cranes, and advanced sonar systems to facilitate its deep submergence mission.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Point Loma was decommissioned on September 28, 1993, after over two decades of service, and was eventually scrapped, marking the end of a unique chapter in naval support operations.
