The Naval Vessel Register contains information on ships and service craft that comprise the official inventory of the US Navy from the time of vessel authorization through its life cycle and disposal. It also includes ships that have been stricken but not disposed. Ships and service craft disposed of prior to 1987 are currently not included; however the data is gradually being added along with other updates.

The NVR is a product of the NAVSEA Shipbuilding Support Office (NAVSHIPSO) in cooperation with Chief of Naval Operations - Shipbuilding Conversion Navy, N9I and Naval Sea Systems Command - Acquisition, Planning and Appraisal, SEA 05C.