What type of ships are designated under the Army Container Ships category?

The designation of Army Container Ships specifically refers to civilian-operated vessels that are utilized for prepositioning military supplies. These ships are integral to the Army's logistics and support operations because they enable the rapid deployment of equipment and supplies to theaters of operation without relying solely on slower processes like land transportation or airlift capabilities.

In the context of military operations, prepositioning involves placing military supplies and equipment at strategic locations so that they are ready for immediate use in case of an operational need. Army Container Ships serve this purpose effectively, as they can be quickly loaded with necessary cargo and deployed to locations where the Army needs them most.

This function distinguishes them from the other types of ships mentioned. Ships designed for general cargo typically handle a wider variety of commercial freight rather than being focused on military logistics. Private shipping company vessels may operate in the commercial market and may not specifically cater to military needs or supply chains. Similarly, fishing vessels, even those with military contracts, do not fit the definition of Army Container Ships as their primary function is entirely different from logistics and prepositioning activities.