NORFOLK, Va. — The U.S. Navy’s newest vessel, USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO 8), will be making its first arrival at Naval Station Norfolk on Wednesday afternoon, marking a major milestone for the fleet’s underway replenishment capabilities.

The Robert F. Kennedy is the fourth ship in the Navy’s John Lewis-class of fleet replenishment oilers. Operated by Military Sealift Command and crewed by Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS), the ship is designed to deliver fuel to carrier strike groups at sea.

With a capacity of 162,000 barrels of oil, significant dry cargo space, aviation capabilities, and a top speed of 20 knots, the vessel plays a vital role in sustaining naval operations worldwide.

Before joining the fleet, the vessel was christened on October 28, 2023, at the General Dynamics NASSCO

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