“Clearly, We’re Not Competent”—Joint Support Ships

Originally identified in 2004, the joint support ship (JSS) project was intended as a “one-of-a-kind” ship. Bigger than Canada’s long retired aircraft carriers, the JSS was to transport large numbers of troops, equipment, and a headquarters and supply other naval ships at sea. A series of stops and starts saw the project scaled back both in scope and numbers, from three to two ships. Delays led to borrowing sea time from allies and converting a commercial cargo ship. The failure to get the JSS out the proverbial door in 2008 became the impetus for the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy in 2010.