20FEB06 Alameda Point, CA:
Lighter Aboard Ship (LASH) Barge Carrier:
Delivered to the Maritime Administration, 28APR71, for operation by Prudential Line
Named changed to SS Austral Lightning. Reacquired by the Maritime Administration for assignment to the Ready Reserve Fleet(RRF), 13MAY85. When activated Cape Fear (T-AK-5061) is assigned to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) as one of the Military Sealift Command's four LASH Ready Reserve Force Ships. Cape Fear can be activated in 10 days
Specifications:
Displacement 33,000 tons
Length 820'
Beam 100'
Draft 35' (max.)
Speed 18.7 kts.
Cargo Capacity assigned 73 barges
Propulsion steam turbine, single propeller