US Navy SAN DIEGO – Construction on the USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO 208) began at the General Dynamics-National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (GD-NASSCO) shipyard, May 21. T-AO 208 will be operated by the Navy’s Military Sealift Command and is the first ship named after the Navy veteran, former U.S. Attorney General and U.S. Senator from New York. “USNS Robert F. Kennedy will provide significant contributions to the fleet, serving as the primary fuel pipeline to refuel ships at sea. The building of the John Lewis-class ships marks an important milestone in enhancing our Navy’s fleet capabilities and providing critical support to our Sailors,” said John Lighthammer, Support Ships, Boats and Craft Acting Program Manager, Program Executive Office, Ships.