WASHINGTON (USTCNS) --- The U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command has signed a memorandum of understanding with the American Bureau of Shipping, formalizing routine procedures in the survey and classification of MSC vessels.

MSC ships have been classed by ABS under direction from the Chief of Naval Operations since 1960; the new MOU clarifies and documents classification procedures and processes.

In addition to MSC vessel classification, the MOU authorizes ABS to act on behalf of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to conduct ship inspections and monitor the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and Marine Pollution (MARPOL) requirements.

Founded in 1862, the American Bureau of Shipping is an international vessel classification association. ABS classification verifies standards in design and construction of marine vessels, marine-related facilities and vessel maintenance.

The Military Sealift Command is the transportation provider
for the Department of Defense with the responsibility of providing strategic sealift and ocean transportation for all military forces overseas. (FROM MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS).