ARC FREEDOM which from its outset is a PCTC, will operate as part of the Maritime Security Program (MSP), providing commercially active U.S.-flag capacity that can be made available to support Department of War requirements.

“Freedom has always been inseparable from America’s identity. As America marks 250 years of independence, ARC FREEDOM is a fitting name for a vessel that will carry the U.S. flag around the world, serving our customers in peacetime and standing ready to serve our nation when called,” said Eric Ebeling, President and CEO of ARC.

He is supplemented by Captain Stephen M. Carmel, Administrator of the Maritime Administration (MARAD) at the U.S. Department of Transportation:

“Adding the ARC Freedom to the U.S.-flag fleet is a major win for America’s national security. As a member of the Maritime Security Program, this vessel will deliver the rapid response our military depends on to keep America safe. ARC continues to be a vital partner in ensuring the American merchant marine remains strong and prepared.”

ARC FREEDOM provides nearly 8,000 car-equivalent units of capacity across 13 vehicle decks, including five hoistable decks that provide flexibility for cargo of varying sizes and configurations. The vessel also features a 6.5-meter-high main deck/door and a stern ramp capable of handling rolling loads of up to 320 metric tons.

Together, these capabilities enable ARC FREEDOM to transport a broad range of cargo, from automobiles and commercial equipment to heavy industrial cargo and military equipment including the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft and the CH-47 helicopter, in support of both commercial and government missions.

ARC FREEDOM joins the fleet as the Trump Administration and bipartisan leaders in Congress work to find new ways to support the U.S.-flag commercial fleet. By adding another commercially active vessel with significant military utility, ARC is expanding the capacity available to move critical cargo in international commerce and support U.S. forces when called.

The 2011-built ARC FREEDOM was bought from Wallenius Wilhelmsen in June 2026 as FIGARO.

American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) is a U.S.-flag RoRo carrier operating in international trade. ARC provides end-to-end logistics and ocean transportation services to commercial and government customers and participates in the Maritime Security Program and Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement, providing strategic sealift capacity and global logistics capabilities in support of U.S. national security.

Read also: Three US-based RoRo operators awarded new Joint Global Sealift Charter contracts

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