The Powhatan class of fleet ocean tugs consists of seven ships built for the United States Navy, operated by the Military Sealift Command by primarily civilian crews with the USNS designation. As of 2020, three ships are still active with the MSC.



USNS Apache (T-ATF-172), fifth United States Navy ship of the name, is the last of the Powhatan class of fleet ocean tugs. Apache was delivered to the U.S. Navy in 1981. She is operated by Military Sealift Command and crewed by 18 civil service mariners (CIVMARS). She is designed to provide the Navy with towing service, and when augmented by Navy divers, assist in the recovery of downed aircraft and ships. There are quarters on board for up to 22 additional personnel.