US Navy’s newest fleet oiler hits the water

General Dynamics NASSCO launched the lead ship of the US Navy’s John Lewis-class fleet oilers at its San Diego shipyard on Tuesday, January 12.

Once in service, USNS John Lewis will be operated by the navy’s Military Sealift Command and provide underway replenishment of fuel and stores to navy ships at sea and jet fuel for aircraft assigned to aircraft carriers.

The ship will then undergo final outfitting. Christening is scheduled for this spring while sea trials and delivery will take place later in 2021.