| |
ship, a refrigerator ship, and an aviation supply
ship.
The AFS (fig. 19-21) is designed for high-speed
replenishment operations. Built-in materials-
handling equipment, consisting of elevators,
vertical tray lift conveyors, and pallet conveyors,
provide for the rapid breakout of cargo. Forklift
trucks and pallet trucks are used for horizontal
movement of cargo to the replenishment stations.
In addition to the conventional replenishment
rigging,
constant-tension
highline
transfer
systems are available to all transfer stations.
Large free-deck areas provide space for pre-
positioning loads destined for receiving ships. A
helicopter platform and hangar for launching and
servicing two helicopters add the capability of
vertical replenishment.
FAST COMBAT SUPPORT SHIPS. —Fast
combat support ships (AOEs) are the largest and
most powerful auxiliary ships in the Navy. Unlike
other replenishment ships, the AOE is designed to
operate as an integral force, rather than as a unit
of an underway replenishment group.
The AOE (fig. 19-22) is a multiple-product ship
that
can
transfer
missiles,
conventional
ammunition, fuel, and general and refrigerated
cargo to other ships at sea.
The AOE combines in one large ship the
functions of three major service force ships—oiler,
ammunition ship, and combat store ship. The deck
layout and cargo-handling equipment of the AOE
allow it to service the smallest patrol craft or the
largest carrier.
The design of the AOE includes a helicopter
flight deck capable of supporting three Sea Knight
helicopters. The use of helicopters in replenishing
has several advantages. It enables the transfer of
provisions faster than a receiving ship can stow
them away. It also enables the transfer of highly
perishable commodities without the risk of
defrosting or spoilage. In addition it makes
possible the replenishment of a ship that may be
40 or 50 miles away.
The AOE is larger than other UNREP ships. It
has 15 replenishment stations, each capable of
transferring a load of cargo to a ship alongside
134.199
Figure 19-21.-USS San Jose (AFS-7).
19-20
|
