USNS Zeus (T-ARC-7) 36 inches boat model

Own a handcrafted replica of one of the U.S. Navy's most dependable fleet ocean tugs. USNS Catawba (T-ATF-168) is a Powhatan-class fleet ocean tug operated by the Military Sealift Command, built to perform some of the Navy's most demanding support missions. Designed for heavy ocean towing, salvage operations, diving support, and rescue missions, USNS Catawba has spent decades assisting damaged naval vessels, recovering equipment, and supporting complex maritime operations around the world.

Our 36-inch handcrafted USNS Catawba model faithfully captures the distinctive appearance of the original vessel. Each model is individually built by experienced craftsmen using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method—the same principle used in authentic wooden shipbuilding. We select only premium hardwoods, including Western Red Cedar, Teak, and Mahogany, to ensure exceptional durability, fine craftsmanship, and a timeless finish.

Every element is carefully recreated, from the rugged hull and expansive aft working deck to the bridge, towing winch, deck crane, towing equipment, deck fittings, and other signature features that define this hardworking naval support vessel. Rather than being mass-produced, each model is individually handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, creating a museum-quality display piece worthy of any military, naval, or maritime collection.

One of the defining characteristics of USNS Catawba is its exceptional towing capability, generated by its powerful bollard pull and expansive low-profile aft working deck designed to handle massive towing hawsers, salvage equipment, and recovery gear. This handcrafted model faithfully showcases the vessel's heavy-duty towing winch, midship crane, industrial deck layout, and classic naval gray finish, capturing the rugged engineering and operational versatility that have made USNS Catawba one of the U.S. Navy's most reliable fleet support vessels.

The 36-inch model offers a larger, more commanding display while showcasing an even greater level of craftsmanship and detail. Its increased size allows USNS Catawba's expansive aft working deck, heavy-duty towing winch, midship crane, towing gear, and rugged hull configuration to be appreciated with exceptional clarity, creating an impressive centerpiece for an executive office, study, display cabinet, or dedicated collection room. Preferred by serious collectors, naval historians, military enthusiasts, and maritime professionals, the 36-inch version delivers enhanced realism, stronger visual presence, and a museum-quality presentation while remaining ideally suited for larger display spaces. It is the perfect choice for those seeking a premium handcrafted replica that fully captures the rugged engineering, towing capability, and operational legacy of one of the U.S. Navy's most trusted fleet ocean tugs.

Each piece is individually handcrafted, and production typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the model's size and complexity. Throughout the process, we'll keep you updated with detailed progress photos at every major milestone, allowing you to review the craftsmanship and approve each stage before we move forward.

You'll receive photos during:

Hull construction
Deck detailing and superstructure assembly
Final painting and finishing

Your satisfaction comes first. We proceed to the next stage only after you've reviewed the previous one.

Secure Worldwide Delivery

Once you approve the completed model, it will be carefully packed in a custom-built wooden shipping crate with multiple layers of protective cushioning to ensure it arrives safely anywhere in the world.

Custom Orders Available

Looking for a different size or a personalized version? We offer custom dimensions, modifications, and bespoke designs upon request. Simply contact our team to discuss your project.

Bring home a handcrafted tribute to one of the U.S. Navy's most dependable fleet ocean tugs. Whether you're expanding a military collection, enhancing your office, or investing in a museum-quality display piece, our handcrafted USNS Catawba (T-ATF-168) model is built to become an impressive centerpiece you'll be proud to display for generations.

Contact us today to begin building your custom USNS Catawba (T-ATF-168) model.

History
The USNS Catawba (T-ATF-168) is a Powhatan-class fleet ocean tug that has served the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command as a highly capable towing and salvage vessel for more than four decades. Built for exceptional strength and reliability in demanding offshore operations, her keel was laid on December 14, 1977, by Marinette Marine Corporation in Wisconsin. The vessel was launched on September 22, 1979, and officially delivered to the U.S. Navy on May 28, 1980. Since entering service, the USNS Catawba has carried out a wide range of missions, including deep-sea towing, ocean salvage, rescue operations, and fleet support across the world's oceans.

Measuring 226 feet in length, the USNS Catawba features a reinforced steel hull and twin diesel engines that generate an impressive bollard pull, enabling the tug to tow disabled naval and commercial vessels through challenging sea conditions. Among her most notable missions was towing the heavily damaged guided-missile destroyer USS Cole from Aden Harbor, Yemen, following the 2000 terrorist attack. Throughout her distinguished service, the USNS Catawba has supported complex salvage operations, diving missions, and emergency assistance efforts, earning a lasting reputation as one of the U.S. Navy’s most dependable ocean-going support vessels.