Army Revitalizes Pacific Operations with Kuroda-Class Vessels

The U.S. Army has reinvigorated its presence in the Pacific by reactivating the logistics support vessel SSGT Robert T. Kuroda, stationed at Pearl Harbor. Named after a World War II Medal of Honor recipient, the vessel honors the legacy of Kuroda, who served in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and died during combat in France. The Kuroda is among two Kuroda-class logistics support vessels (LSVs) in the Army, designed to transport essential equipment across the ocean to support military operations.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Kyle Nicholas, the vessel’s captain, has a personal connection to the Kuroda family and reflects on the significance of the ship’s name. “I love Hawaii, I’ve always loved living here,” Nicholas shared. “It’s a unique place, but in 20 years of service, I’ve never had the pleasure of commanding a vessel named after someone who grew up close to where this boat is moored.”

As a modified version of the Besson-class LSV, the Kuroda is equipped to transport vehicles, weapons, and various equipment. Alongside the other Kuroda-class vessel, Robert Smalls, both ships have been called into service as the Army shifts its focus from prolonged conflicts in the Middle East to confronting challenges posed by China.

Reasserting Army’s Role in the Pacific

The U.S. military has long viewed the Pacific as primarily the domain of the Navy, which boasts the most extensive fleet under the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Nonetheless, Maj. Gen. Gavin Gardner, commander of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command, emphasizes that watercraft have a historic role in the Army’s operations. “Army watercraft systems have been with the Army really since its inception,” Gardner noted, referencing George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River.

The Army aims to enhance its logistical capabilities in the Pacific, collaborating closely with the Navy and Marine Corps, as well as allied forces. Gardner stated, “The Army provides the backbone of our ability to sustain combat power across the region.” This collaboration is pivotal as the Army reintroduces its boats into operational roles, ensuring a seamless integration of land and maritime resources.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Micah Innis, responsible for the Kuroda’s engine room, highlights the diverse skill sets required of Army personnel aboard the vessel. Transitioning from a ten-year civilian career in accounting to military service, Innis acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Army boat crews. “In the Army, my soldiers do everything from hydraulics to engines,” he explained. “They have to be adaptable and prepared for any situation.”

Operational Highlights and Future Plans

The Kuroda has already demonstrated its capabilities in various operations, including training exercises in the Philippines this spring. U.S. troops from all branches utilized the vessel to transport equipment efficiently, showcasing the logistical expertise critical for success in joint operations. “We demonstrated bringing a large vessel, a Maritime Sealift Command vessel, and transferring equipment onto the Army’s watercraft,” Gardner explained.

With a cruising speed of approximately 10 knots, the Kuroda is not designed for speed but for versatility. “It’s meant to carry equipment and beach itself anywhere in the world,” Innis commented, emphasizing the strategic importance of the vessel’s capabilities. The Army has plans to expand its maritime operations, potentially integrating unmanned watercraft systems into future tactics.

The revitalization of the Kuroda and its sister ship represents a broader Army initiative to enhance its maritime logistics and operational readiness. The Army has already increased the service hours of the Kuroda significantly since its return to active duty. The vessel has conducted operations across the Pacific, traveling to locations such as Guam, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Despite the demanding nature of their work, those serving on the Kuroda find purpose and pride in their roles. Staff Sgt. Jessica Howell, a boatswain on the Kuroda, remarked, “You get to see the world, and you get to do the work. We’re out there for a reason.” As the Army continues to adapt and innovate, the Kuroda and its crew remain vital components in the U.S. military’s strategy for the Pacific.