The USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) is the ultimate paradox of American naval strategy. This 42,000-ton cargo vessel carries 6,000 tons of highly explosive ammunition and critical supplies to carrier strike groups, yet it is completely unarmed and crewed entirely by civilians. We explore the brutal logistical reality of the Military Sealift Command, the insane engineering behind underway replenishment, and why relying on a defenseless, slow-moving supply ship is a massive strategic risk.

Source: The USNS Lewis and Clark — Why the Navy Gives 6,000 Tons of Explosives to Civilians