### Question
What is the definition of essential vessel?


### Answer
The definition of **essential vessel** is as follows in *APPENDIX U.S.C. § 1242a*:

> any vessel (1) which is (A) security for any mortgage indebtedness to the United States or (B) constructed under this chapter, or required by the terms of a contract under this chapter to be operated on a certain essential foreign trade route, and (2) which it is necessary in the interests of commerce and national defense to maintain in condition for prompt use

#### Citation:
  - *APPENDIX U.S.C. § 1242a*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 27-MERCHANT MARINE ACT, 1936 > SUBCHAPTER IX-MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS**

