The USNS Vandenberg being prepared for sinking in Norfolk. (Photo by Flickr F33)

Its the end of the line for the USNS Vandenberg…at least as a floating ship.  It is getting ready to begin its new life as an artificial reef off Key West, FL.  The ship was recently towed from Virginia to Florida in preparation for its sinking in the coming weeks. The ship has been laid up in the James River Naval Reserve Fleet known by many as the “Ghost Fleet”.

The Vandenberg was originally built as aC-4 Army Transport, named the USS General Harry Taylor (T-AP-145).  It was later converted to a Missile Range Instrumentation ship, and worked for the Air Force in the Air Force Eastern Test Range.

Missile Range Instrumentation are some of the most interesting ships in the fleets of the world’s navies.  These ships typically serve quietly, and go unnoticed unless spotted in some distant port with their huge satellite dishes and radar domes.  The U.S. currently has two active Missile Range ships, which include the USNS Observation Island and the USNS Invincible.  Both ships work under the Military Sealift Command and are crewed by civilian mariners.

An artists conception of the Vandenberg as an artificial reef. (Flickr MasterGeorge)

All indications show that the Vandenberg is a proud ship, that has served admirably in both her roles as a transport ship and missile range instrumentation ship.   She will likely continue to serve as one of the most interesting artificial reefs out there, for both divers and the sea creatures that will call her home.  She is also reportedly becoming the second largest artificial reef.

The Vandenburg is scheduled to be sunk approximately 6 miles offshore from Key West in the next few weeks, before the hurricane season arrives.

There are several websites with some great facts and photos about the ship.  Check them out!

Sink the Vandenerg – Site run by the organization coordinating the sinking of the ship.  Has a great collection of photos and video interviews of former crew members.  Also has updates as to the status of the sinking.

Range Rat – Dedicated to those who served aboard Missile Range Instrumentation Ships (dubbed range rats)