The SS Cape May (T-AKR-5063) is a heavy-lift Seabee barge carrier powered by a steam turbine, serving as one of two ships within the Military Sealift Command's Ready Reserve Force. Originally constructed as a commercial vessel, she was built under the Maritime Administration type (C8-S-82a) hull designation SS Almeria Lykes, with the official number 536671 and IMO 7205958. Her construction was undertaken by the General Dynamics Quincy Shipbuilding Division in Massachusetts, with her keel laid down on October 31, 1971. She was launched on February 27, 1972, and delivered for service later that year on September 26, 1972. Initially, she operated commercially under the Lykes Brothers Steamship Company, serving in various cargo roles. Her transition to military service occurred when she was turned over to the Maritime Administration on July 25, 1986, and subsequently assigned to the Military Sealift Command's Ready Reserve Force as SS Cape May (AKR-5063). As part of her military role, she is utilized for heavy transport tasks, particularly in the deployment of large cargoes in different operational theaters, supporting the logistical needs of the U.S. military. The vessel's steam turbine propulsion system provides the necessary power for her heavy-lift capabilities, enabling her to carry substantial loads across vast distances. Currently, she remains in a ready reserve status, prepared to be activated for large cargo missions as required. Her significance lies in her strategic role within the U.S. military's logistical network, providing vital heavy-lift capabilities to support national defense and operational mobility.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.