American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Group Inc. (ARC) has integrated the recently reflagged M/V ARC Endeavor into the Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet as of December 1, replacing the M/V Endurance.
The strategic addition reinforces the nation’s critical maritime readiness infrastructure, which has been instrumental in supporting U.S. military operations since 1996.
The MSP fleet, comprising 60 U.S.-flag vessels, has proven indispensable for national security, with U.S.-flag commercial vessels handling over 90% of sustainment cargo for military operations and rebuilding efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2009.
“Through our valued partnership with ARC and the U.S. military, the addition of the M/V ARC Endeavor to the MSP program under U.S. registry underscores our shared commitment to strengthening the U.S.-flag fleet and supporting national defense,” said Seafarers International Union President Dave Heindel.
Photo courtesy ARC
The ARC Endeavor, which was re-flagged to the American registry on September 27, bringing with it impressive capabilities to the fleet as ARC’s fifth U.S.-flag Large Car Truck Carrier. The ship has capacity for more than 7,500 car-equivalent units, featuring a 21-foot (6.50 meters) high stern opening and ramp capable of handling cargo up to 320 tons.
While the ARC Endeavor replaces the Endurance in the MSP fleet, the Endurance will continue its service under the U.S. flag. As the largest multi-purpose Ro-Ro ship in the U.S.-flag commercial fleet, the Endurance boasts unique specifications, including nine configurable decks and extensive cargo capacity for military vehicles and equipment.
The addition expands ARC’s total U.S.-flag fleet to ten vessels, maintaining nine ships within the MSP program. As the largest U.S.-flag Ro-Ro operator, ARC also participates in MARAD’s Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA) program.
ARC is part of the Wallenius Wilhelmsen group of companies.
Iran has begun talks with Japanese companies under a U.S. sanctions waiver allowing it to resume oil sales, though prospective buyers are seeking a longer waiver and reassurances about ship safety, three Iranian and Western sources said.
China called for the unhindered flow of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, comments that come as leading European powers are apparently accepting that vessels will have to pay fees to Iran and Oman.
By John Irish and Jonathan Saul PARIS/LONDON, July 2 (Reuters) – Europe is taking tougher action against tankers falsely using Cameroon’s flag registry to transport Russian oil, including boarding vessels at sea, prompting...
22 hours ago
Total Views: 552
Get The Industry’s Go-To News
Subscribe to gCaptain Daily and stay informed with the latest global maritime and offshore news
— just like 104,821 professionals
Secure Your Spot
on the gCaptain Crew
Stay informed with the latest maritime and offshore news, delivered daily straight to your inbox
— trusted by our 104,821 members
Your Gateway to the Maritime World!
Essential news coupled with the finest maritime content sourced from across the globe.