MARAD

The United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) is an agency of the United States Department of Transportation. MARAD administers financial programs to develop, promote, and operate the U.S. Maritime Service and the U.S. Merchant Marine. In addition, it conducts research and development activities in the maritime field; regulates the transfer of U.S. documented vessels to foreign registries; maintains equipment, shipyard facilities, and reserve fleets of Government-owned ships essential for national defense. MARAD also maintains the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) as a ready source of ships for use during national emergencies and logistically supporting the military when needed. MARAD also manages the Ready Reserve Force (RFF) - Naval Reserve officers who can fill in shortages during emergencies and rapidly expand the Navy's capabilities. And it operates the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.