DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
2000 NAVY PENTAGON
WASHINGTON DC 20350-2000
OPNAVINST 3501.197D
N4
29 Mar 2023
OPNAVINST 3501.197D
From: Chief of Naval Operations
Subj: REQUIRED OPERATIONAL CAPABILITIES AND PROJECTED
OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE T-AOT OCEAN TRANSPORT
TANKER
Ref: (a) OPNAVINST C3501.2L (NOTAL), Guidance for Developing Unit Required
Operational Capabilities and Projected Operational Environment Statements
(b) SECNAV M-5210.1 DON Records Management Manual
(c) OPNAVINST 5215.17A, Navy Directives Management Program Manual
Encl: (1) Projected Operational Environment for the T-AOT
(2) Required Operational Capabilities for the T-AOT
1. Purpose. To issue the Required Operational Capabilities (ROC) and Projected Operational
Environment (POE) for the T-AOT.
2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 3501.197C.
3. Scope and Applicability. Enclosures (1) and (2) have been prepared per reference (a) and
define the ROC and POE for the T-AOT. T-AOT ships are commercially-owned and-operated,
chartered by the U.S. government under the operational control of the Commander, Military
Sealift Command (COMSC). The guidelines stated in subparagraphs 3a and 3b apply to the
format and interpretation of the ROC and POE.
a. There is a wide variety of design configurations among the T-AOTs. This instruction
applies generically to all configurations. There is no requirement for specific ROCs and POEs
tailored to each configuration.
b. As commercial ships, the T-AOT ships are civilian manned per regulatory requirements,
and time charters or operating contracts. The conditions and reporting symbols in this instruction
are to be interpreted as defining the level of functional capability to be achieved, but will not
determine the manning levels for these vessels.
4. Action. Fleet commanders, Commander, U. S. Transportation Command and COMSC are
requested to periodically review enclosures (1) and (2) and recommend changes to the Chief of
Naval Operations.
