Versatile rescue and salvage vessels equipped to rescue disabled ships, conduct dive operations, and provide heavy lift support. Their shallow draft allows access to ports other MSC ships can't reach.
Military Sealift Command operates two Safeguard Class T-ARS rescue and salvage ships: the USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51) and the USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52). These versatile vessels are equipped to rescue disabled ships, tow distressed vessels, conduct salvage and dive operations, and provide heavy lift support.
Their shallow draft and maneuverability enable them to access ports and piers that other MSC ships cannot reach, making them invaluable for retrieving sunken military equipment and assisting in emergency situations. The T-ARS vessels are unique ships in the MSC fleet.
Rescue disabled ships and tow distressed vessels to safety
Conduct salvage and dive operations with diving depth capability to 190 feet
150-ton hauling force with 7.5-ton forward boom and 40-ton aft boom
Prepared for emergency medical assistance during real-world diving events
Can access ports and piers that other MSC ships cannot reach
Frequently invited to unique and exotic locations thanks to specialized role
May train foreign divers or participate in "Goodwill" missions globally
May serve as training platform for new Dynamic Positioning (DP) class vessels
Small Crew Benefit: Due to the small MSC crew size of only 28, there are often more overtime opportunities available per person.
These are old ships that typically require annual maintenance periods in shipyards.
Small vessels that handle roughly in bad weather. They often wait for favorable conditions before getting underway.
Slower transit speeds and limited capacity reduce long-term endurance, leading to frequent port stops.
Information compiled from MSC sources and mariner experiences. Details may vary by vessel and operational status.
