The U.S. Army is reinvesting in its maritime capabilities in the Pacific by activating logistics support vessels, including the SSGT Robert T. Kuroda, stationed at Pearl Harbor. Named after a World War II Medal of Honor recipient from Aiea, Hawaii, the Kuroda plays a crucial role in transporting military equipment across vast oceanic distances.
The Kuroda is one of two Kuroda-class logistics support vessels (LSVs) in the Army, designed to carry vehicles, weapons, and other essential supplies to various destinations. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Kyle Nicholas, the vessel’s captain, shared his connection to the namesake, stating, “I think of him often,” and expressing pride in the boat’s mission. “In 20 years of service, I’ve never had the pleasure of having something like this,” he added.
The Army is actively re-engaging its maritime operations in response to a strategic shift that emphasizes readiness against potential challenges posed by China. As part of this renewed focus, the Kuroda and its counterpart, the Robert Smalls, have been deployed for extensive operations across the Pacific, supporting training initiatives and logistical requirements for the Army and allied forces.
Historical Context and Modern Operations
Historically, Army LSVs have been integral to military operations. During World War II, these vessels were vital in the island-hopping campaign against Japanese forces. Today, the Army aims to establish a “landpower network” that links the U.S. military with its allies in the region.
According to Maj. Gen. Gavin Gardner, commander of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command, the Army’s watercraft systems have been part of military operations since its inception, highlighting their importance in both historical and contemporary contexts. “Army watercraft systems have been with the Army really since its inception,” Gardner stated, referencing the famous crossing of the Delaware River by George Washington.
The Kuroda and Smalls serve as logistical workhorses, facilitating operations that range from transporting equipment between islands to participating in joint exercises with naval and air forces. The vessels have recently made trips to locations such as Guam, Australia, and the Philippines.
Challenges and Innovations at Sea
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Micah Innis oversees the engine room of the Kuroda and the soldiers who maintain it. Innis, who transitioned from the Navy to the Army, remarked on the differences between service branches. “In the Army, my soldiers do everything,” Innis explained, noting that the team is responsible for various technical tasks, from hydraulics to engine maintenance.
Staff Sgt. Jessica Howell, a boatswain on the Kuroda, emphasized the unique experience of serving on a vessel. “You get to see the world, and you get to do the work. We’re out there for a reason,” she noted, highlighting the significance of their mission.
The Army’s boat operations are not without challenges. The Kuroda typically travels at an average speed of just 10 knots, making long journeys across the Pacific demanding. Innis described the difficulty of operating in such conditions, stating, “It’s not meant to go fast; it’s meant to carry equipment and beach itself anywhere in the world.”
During recent exercises in the Philippines, the Kuroda played a pivotal role in logistics, facilitating the transfer of equipment from larger Navy ships to Army vessels, allowing for direct delivery to shore. “It’s a high-stakes operation with little room for mistakes,” Nicholas explained, emphasizing the meticulous coordination required for successful operations.
The Army is also exploring new watercraft technologies, including unmanned systems, as it seeks to enhance its operational capabilities. The emphasis on innovation is evident as the Army collaborates with the Navy and Marines to reintegrate its maritime assets into broader operational frameworks.
The Kuroda’s history is one of near obsolescence. Originally entering service in the 2000s, the vessel was nearly auctioned off due to inactivity. However, the Army recognized the need to revitalize its maritime capabilities and brought the Kuroda back to active duty in Hawaii, where it has since doubled its operational hours.
The revitalization of the Kuroda and the Army’s broader efforts to assert its maritime presence in the Pacific reflect a strategic shift towards a more integrated approach to military operations in the region. As the Army continues to adapt to evolving geopolitical landscapes, leaders like Maj. Gen. Gardner emphasize the importance of blending different military assets to achieve operational success.
In summary, the SSGT Robert T. Kuroda is not just a vessel; it symbolizes the Army’s commitment to maintaining its vital role in Pacific operations, ensuring that it is prepared to meet the challenges of the future.
