ATF-172 Apache

The original


The seven Powhatan Class tugs were built and operated by the Military Sealift Command of the US navy since the late 1970‘ies for all kinds of fleet ocean tug duties. In 2014, four were still active with the US navy.


The following vessels were originally built:

  1. •T-ATF-166 USNS Powhatan, built in 1979, later sold to Turkey

  2. •T-ATF-167 USNS Narragansett, built in 1979

  3. •T-ATF-168 USNS Catawba, built in 1980

  4. •T-ATF-169 USNS Navajo, built in 1980

  5. •T-ATF-170 USNS Mohawk, built in 1980, now inactive

  6. •T-ATF-171 USNS Sioux, built in 1981

  7. •T-ATF-172 USNS Apache, built in 1981


Each vessel are used to tow vessels, barges, and gun exercise targets, and they are used for salvage and rescue operations. With their twin diesel engines, they have a bollard pull of approximately 54 tons. Additional equipment includes a ten ton crane, a dinghy and firefighting equipment. The ships are propelled by twin propellers in kort nozzles, and they have an additional bow thruster for maneuverability.


Technical data

    Length           68,9 m  
    Width            12,8 m  
    Weight          2290 tons (full)


Information on the original:

    Powhatan Class tugs on Navsource

    Powhatan Class  on Wikipedia

    ATF-172 Apache on Wikipedia

    ATF-172 Apache on Shipspotting

    ATF-172 Apache on Navsource

The model


The Model is designed in 1:200 scale. It can be built as a model for static display or as a working RC boat. It is set up to enable radio control functions (RC), both for the two shafts (in Kort nozzles), the rudder and the bow thruster. Additionally, the radar, the tender davit and lights can be set up to work, and additional functionality can be designed. However, this model is not set up to be ready to run, it requires refinement and is only suitable for skilled model builders.


Size of the model

    scale        1:200

    length      36,5 cm

    width       7,5 cm


See the ATF-172 gallery for more pictures.


The assembly manual is available for download in the download section. Similarly, the basic hull (without holes, decks, and fittings) can be downloaded there. The basic hull is also available at Shapeways for those who want to build the model from scratch.

The Kit


The kit is available through Shapeways:


  1. •Only the printed parts, directly from Shapeways

  2. •The total model consists of four sets of printed parts: Hull, Superstructure, Details 1 of 2, Details 2 of 2.

  3. •Additional parts to complete the model are available:
    a display stand, propellers for a static model, a RHIB instead of the tender, an extension to make the radars work

  4. •The assembly manual and drawings are available in the download section.

  5. •In case of problems or questions, don‘t hesitate to contact me: info@microboathobby.com








Source        https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/USNS_Apache_(T-ATF-172)