The Stena Polaris and French Navy vessel Jacques Chevallier perform an underway replenishment on Christmas Eve.
The following is excerpted from an article published by United States Transportation Command.
On Christmas Eve, the commercial tanker Stena Polaris moored at Toulon Naval Base, France, and successfully completed in-port refuel training with the French force supply vessel Jacques Chevallier, demonstrating the value of being able to refuel vessels belonging to allies and partners.
Stena Polaris then performed a CONSOL underway replenishment with Jacques Chevallier – the first ever between the United States Military Sealift Command and the French Navy – demonstrating a new capability for the French Navy and increased capacity among allied nations.
The Stena Polaris is operated by Crowley Government Services and is manned in all licensed positions by members of American Maritime Officers.
“History has shown us time and again that allied success on the battlefield depends upon the strength of the industrial base and our relationships with the commercial sector,” said Army Lt. Gen. Jered Helwig, USTRANSCOM deputy commander. “Our close relationships with the fuels industry and our allies have been and continue to be integral to safeguarding national interests at home and abroad.”
During the CONSOL operation, JP5 fuel was transferred between the two vessels, demonstrating another option to the standard fuel delivery process. Typically, a commercial vessel transfers fuel to MSC’s Combat Logistics Fleet, which then supports deployed units, such as a carrier strike group.
MSC reintroduced commercial tankers to fuel transfers in 2015 to reduce port visits.
“Direct refueling with commercial tankers allows us to swiftly adapt to changing circumstances, and redirect forces without the constraints of limited fuel supplies,” said Rear Adm. Philip Sobeck, MSC commander. “The extended range becomes particularly invaluable in scenarios where the proximity of friendly ports is limited or during prolonged missions where ships are far from logistical support.”
USTRANSCOM formally began its sixth unified command plan mission last year as the Defense Department’s single manager for global bulk fuel management and delivery. This new mission allows the command to provide advocacy for capabilities and resources to meet the energy needs of the joint force in competition and conflict.
“When we combine our capabilities with those of our allies and our commercial partners, we multiply options and flexibility to fuel the force,” said Air Force Col. John Barry, U.S. Transportation Command Global Bulk Fuels Division chief. “The changes to global bulk fuel delivery enhance resilience in a contested environment and improve how fuel is distributed, increasing deterrence and support during a crisis, while enhancing warfighting readiness. It has enabled critical efforts for multiple bulk fuel stakeholders and combatant commands in support of global operations.”
Stena Polaris crewmembers control fuel lines during CONSOL operations with a French Navy vessel in December.
Santa watches the first ever CONSOL operations between an MSC vessel and the French Navy.
The Stena Polaris also conducted an in-port refueling while in France.