Written By: Camryn Keeble
Asbestos on Navy Tenders
In the United States Navy, tenders are large support ships designed to provide extensive aid and services to ships in need of maintenance or repair. Although tenders are expected to provide assistance to other ships and sailors, these ships are known to contain a wide variety of asbestos-containing materials, which can lead to severe health issues for Navy veterans.
Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Dangers of Asbestos on Navy Tenders
Many Navy ships are known to contain a cancerous material. Asbestos, the material in question, was used in nearly every aspect of construction during the 20th century – from cars, homes, buildings and ships. It’s heat resistant and extremely durable, which made it a suitable material for constructing powerful vessels, such as Navy tenders.
However, asbestos is highly toxic and can cause severe illnesses and cancer. It is the only known cause of the rare cancer mesothelioma. Due to the excessive use of asbestos throughout the Navy, military asbestos exposure is very common.
Destroyer Tenders (AD), Submarine Tenders (AS) and Seaplane Tenders (AV) were among the most common Tenders built with asbestos.
If you are a Navy veteran who served on one of these ships, you may have been exposed to asbestos on your tender. Contact our VA-Accredited Claims Agent, retired LCDR Carl Jewett, to find out more information or for assistance filing your VA claim.
More About Navy Tenders
U.S. Navy tenders are specialized support vessels designed to provide maintenance, repair and logistical services to other naval ships while at sea or in remote locations. Tenders play a crucial role in sustaining the operational capabilities of the fleet, as they enable naval vessels to receive essential support services without the need to return to port.
There are several types of tenders in the US Navy, including repair tenders, submarine tenders, and aviation tenders. Repair tenders, also known as fleet support ships, are most common and are responsible for repairing and maintaining various naval vessels. Submarine tenders are designed to support submarines and their crews, while aviation tenders are responsible for providing logistical support to naval aviation units.
Tenders are typically large vessels, ranging from around 200 to 900 feet in length, and can accommodate a large crew and a significant amount of cargo. They are equipped with cranes, workshops, and other facilities that allow them to carry out a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks.
In addition to their logistical and technical support roles, tenders are also important for providing a safe haven for ships in distress. In times of war, they may also serve as command and control centers, providing a base of operations for naval forces operating in the area.
Sources & Author
- USS Fulton (AS-11) underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 6 December 1984 (6391550). Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5948492. Accessed: 09/05/2023.
