As the United States gained experience in amphibious operations, it was realized that some sort of mobile repair facility would be useful for repairing the damage that frequently occurred to smaller vessels such as LCVP's (Landing Craft Vehicle/Personnel).

Achelous-class vessels were based on the same hull as LST's (Landing Ship, Tank) which at the time were being produced in large numbers.

This hull was thought to be ideal for a ship specializing in the repair of light craft, since it was not overly large and had a shallow draught which would enable it to maneuver into small harbors, rivers and inlets where it could service damaged boats and effect other repairs on location.

The conversion from an LST to an Achelous-class ARL was done mainly by converting the large interior tank deck into a number of different shops and storerooms.

The first nine units of the class sealed the bow doors of the LST hull.