US Army logistic support vessel USAV Lt. General William B. Bunker joins Operation Pathways.

According to information published by the US DoD on May 18, 2024, the U.S. Army's Logistics Support Vessel 4 (LSV-4), named LTG William B. Bunker, set sail from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, to support the ongoing Operation Pathways.
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General Frank S. Besson-class support vessel USAV Lt. General William B. Bunker. (Picture source: Dvids)

In a military context, the U.S. Army Logistics Support Vessel 4 (LSV-4), LTG William B. Bunker, enhances logistical capabilities, allowing for the efficient transport of heavy equipment, supplies, and personnel.

These vessels measure 273 feet in length, with a beam of 60 feet and a draft of 12 feet. They are powered by two EMD 16-645E2 engines, each providing 1,950 horsepower, allowing for speeds of up to 12.5 knots when light and 11.5 knots when loaded. The vessels can travel up to 8,200 nautical miles when light and 6,500 nautical miles when loaded. The crew typically consists of 8 officers and 23 enlisted personnel​​.

The vessels are equipped with bow and stern ramps and can beach themselves, enabling the discharge of 900 short tons of vehicles and cargo in shallow waters or 2,000 short tons for intra-theater roll-on/roll-off operations. The cargo deck can accommodate a variety of military vehicles, including up to 15 M1 Abrams tanks or 82 ISO standard containers​.

A notable variant within this class is the LSV (MOD), which includes vessels like the USAV SSGT Robert T. Kuroda and USAV MG Robert Smalls. These ships are 42 feet longer than the standard class and feature enhanced capabilities such as a streamlined bow, increased displacement, and higher horsepower​​.