ARC Ro-Ro Ship Now Under U.S. Flag

The American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Group Inc. (ARC) has successfully expanded its maritime fleet, welcoming its ninth U.S.-flagged roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel, now known as the M/V ARC Honor.

Previously the M/V Tulane, flagged under Malta, this vessel underwent a re-registration process to the U.S. registry and was subsequently renamed on February 2, 2024. This significant transition took place at the port of Incheon, Korea, with the U.S. Coast Guard overseeing the reflagging process.

Eric Ebeling, the President & CEO of ARC, emphasized the vessel's importance, stating, “This tremendously capable and flexible U.S.-flag ship is crewed by American merchant mariners and now operates in ARC’s global network supporting America’s national defense and economic security through trade.” The ARC Honor represents the fourth large car/truck carrier (LCTC) in the ARC fleet.

Constructed in 2012, the M/V ARC Honor was previously part of the fleet under ARC’s parent company, Wallenius Wilhelmsen, before its integration into ARC’s lineup. It has also been included in the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA), key programs that ensure a fleet of U.S.-flag, commercially operated ships is ready to support the U.S. Department of Defense when necessary.

Since 2016, ARC has been actively reflagging vessels to the MSP and U.S. registry, reinforcing its status as the leading operator of U.S.-flag roll-on/roll-off carriers. The company's fleet now comprises nine vessels engaged in global trade routes.

Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips extended her congratulations to ARC for the vessel's addition to the U.S.-flag fleet. She noted, “As a new addition to the Maritime Security Program, this ship and her crew of U.S. credentialed mariners will support our nation’s economic security and provide sealift capacity for our Armed Forces operating around the world.”

ARC has described the M/V ARC Honor as a versatile asset capable of transporting a wide range of military and heavy equipment, including tracked and wheeled vehicles, helicopters, and other substantial project cargos. The vessel measures 229.99 meters in length, features a main deck with a height of 6.50 meters, and has a stern ramp capable of handling cargo up to 320 metric tons.

David Heindel, President of the Seafarers International Union (SIU), lauded ARC's commitment to the maritime industry, its mariners, and the nation by incorporating this vessel under the U.S. flag. He said, “The leadership team at ARC once again is demonstrating its commitment to our industry, to our mariners, and to our nation by bringing this vessel under the Stars and Stripes.” Heindel expressed excitement about the SIU's ongoing partnership with ARC, particularly in providing crew for the ARC Honor.