The USNS Navajo (T-ATF-169) was a Powhatan-class ocean-going tugboat operated by the Military Sealift Command from 1980 until 2016. Constructed by Marinette Marine Co. in Wisconsin, she was laid down on December 14, 1977, launched on December 20, 1979, and delivered to the Navy on June 13, 1980. Her hull was built from welded steel plates, measuring approximately 240 feet in overall length, with a waterline length of about 225 feet, a beam of 42 feet, and a draft of 15 feet. Fully loaded, she displaced 2,260 tons. Powered by two GM EMD 20-645F7B diesel engines producing 4,500 shaft horsepower, Navajo was equipped with controllable-pitch Kort-nozzle propellers, allowing her to reach speeds of up to 15 knots. She also featured a 300-horsepower bow thruster for enhanced maneuverability. Electrical power was supplied by three 400 kW generators, driven by Detroit Diesel engines. Her fuel capacity enabled a range of approximately 10,000 miles at 13 knots, supporting her global operational scope. Designed for versatile roles, Navajo's large aft deck—over 4,000 square feet—was equipped with a 10-ton crane and a SMATCO 66 DTS-200 towing winch capable of producing up to 90 short tons of bollard pull. She was primarily tasked with towing damaged or stranded ships, evidenced by her involvement in towing USNS Hudson and USS White Plains during emergencies. Her salvage capabilities were demonstrated through recovery operations such as aiding in helicopter crash recoveries and detonation of unexploded WWII ordnance. Throughout her service, Navajo participated in numerous notable missions, including towing decommissioned vessels during RIMPAC exercises, supporting deep-ocean recovery operations, and serving as a platform for Navy divers. She earned distinctions such as the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation and the U.S. Coast Guard Unit Commendation. Decommissioned on October 1, 2016, she remains moored at Pearl Harbor, awaiting final disposition. Her service exemplifies her significant contribution to naval salvage, towing, and support operations over her 36-year career.

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