About this Unit
USS Supply (AOE-6) was a fast combat support ship of the United States Navy, commissioned on 26 February 1994. As the lead ship of her class, she was designed to quickly deliver ammunition, fuel, and supplies to carrier strike groups at sea, thus extending their operational capability. USS Supply served in support of various fleet operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean and participation in exercises to enhance fleet readiness. She was decommissioned in 2001 and transferred to the Military Sealift Command, where she continued her logistical support missions with a civilian crew as USNS Supply (T-AOE-6).
Historical Facts
• Class and Type: USS Supply (AOE-6) was the lead ship of the Supply-class fast combat support ships, designed to provide underway replenishment to carrier strike groups.
• Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on 26 February 1994, bringing a new level of logistics support capability to the U.S. Navy fleet.
• Size and Speed: At over 754 feet long and with a top speed of 25 knots, Supply was among the largest and fastest supply ships in the Navy.
• Advanced Replenishment: Supply could simultaneously deliver fuel, ammunition, food, and other supplies to multiple ships, using both connected replenishment (CONREP) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP) methods.
• First Deployment: USS Supply’s first major deployment was with the USS George Washington (CVN-73) Carrier Battle Group in 1995, supporting operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East.
• Women at Sea: Supply was one of the first combat logistics ships to have women assigned as part of its permanent crew, reflecting the Navy’s expanding roles for women.
• Decommissioning: Despite its advanced capabilities, Supply was decommissioned early in 2001 due to post-Cold War defense budget reductions and changes in logistical support strategy.
• Civilian Service: After decommissioning, the ship was transferred to the Military Sealift Command as USNS Supply (T-AOE-6), operated by a civilian crew but continuing to support Navy missions.
• Kuwait Service Medal: During her Navy service, Supply earned the Kuwait Liberation Medal for her support role during operations in the Persian Gulf.
• Namesake Tradition: USS Supply (AOE-6) was the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name “Supply,” continuing a legacy dating back to the 19th century and the Mexican–American War.
