USMC Concepts & Programs 2013 - Defense Innovation Marketplace

USMC Concepts & Programs 2013
Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV)
The JHSV will provide the critical intra-theater,
surface connector capability that will enable the joint
force commander to project forces and sustainment
at high speeds over operational distances. The JHSV
will be capable of self-deploying to the theater of operations
and, once in theater, provide the high-speed
means to move forces and supplies within that theater.
Specifically, the JHSV will provide the capability to
deliver equipment, personnel, and supplies over the
intra-theater ranges to shallow, austere, and degraded
ports. It will provide support to seabasing and will
bridge the gap between low-speed sealift and highspeed
airlift.
The JHSV lead ship — USNS Spearhead (JHSV
1) — completed acceptance trials in 2012 with three
additional ships in various stages of construction at
Austal USA in Mobile, AL. The current contract is
for 10 ships. Two high-speed commercial ferries,
renamed the USNS Guam and USNS Puerto Rico
have also been purchased. In the interim, highspeed
vessels will continue to be leased in the Pacific
Command area of responsibility to satisfy compelling
requirements.
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