Operations – UNREP (Replenishment)

Whatever the mission, all warships eventually have to replenish fuel, ammunition and provisions. While deployed, Underway Replenishment (UNREP) is a frequent operation. For a destroyer like Taylor, this typically involves coming close alongside another ship, usually an oiler, ammunition ship or carrier, while underway. The supplying ship sets course and speed, which are constantly communicated to the receiving ship during the process. Even in a calm sea with light wind, UNREP is a delicate operation, requiring considerable ship handling skill and concentration. Only the most experienced officers and helmsmen are entrusted with the ship during UNREP. In addition to expendables, mail and personnel transfers are made during UNREP.