INDUSTRY NEWS
Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan) and the Government of Canada announced that work will begin soon on the Joint Support Ships (JSS) for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).
These purpose-built vessels will play a vital role in meeting Canada’s domestic and international obligations and will fully meet the operational needs of the RCN. By starting construction on JSS, Seaspan is able to realize continuous production and ensure further progress is made on their National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) commitments.
“Seaspan Shipyards is a proud partner to the Government of Canada under the National Shipbuilding Strategy,” said Brian Carter, President & CEO of Seaspan Shipyards. “By starting construction on the Joint Support Ships, our company is supporting the operational needs of the Royal Canadian Navy and the long-term success of Canada’s shipbuilding industry.”
With the Seaspan-built JSS, Canada’s women and men in uniform will be able to support our nation’s role in the world. The ships will deliver fuel and other vital supplies to vessels at sea, offer medical and dental services, and provide facilities for helicopter and equipment repair. JSS will be built to highest standard and with modern equipment, propulsion redundancy, a 30+ year life expectancy and the ability to stand in harm’s way if required. The JSS possess the ability to support Canadian Naval Task Groups and operations with Canada’s allies for both military and humanitarian missions and will be fully staffed by the RCN.
“The National Shipbuilding Strategy is helping to build a strong and sustainable shipbuilding industry in Canada, while creating jobs and generating major economic benefits from coast to coast to coast.” said the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, PC, MP, Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada. “With the construction of the JSS, our government is delivering on our commitment to support the men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy as they undertake humanitarian and military missions on behalf of our great country.”
The JSS will be designated the Protecteur-class in recognition of the distinguished service provided by Canada’s former replenishment oilers – Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Protecteur and Preserver.
JSS Overview:
Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Protecteur and Preserver are multi-role vessels that will provide an important auxiliary function to the RCN. They increase the range and endurance of naval task groups by permitting the vessels to remain at sea for long periods of time without needing to return to port for replenishment. They represent crucial elements of Canada’s blue-water naval capabilities and will allow the RCN to participate in operations with allies on military and humanitarian missions.
These vessels are designed and built to carry provisions like food, water, fuel and ammunition for other vessels, provide support ashore, and are a home base for helicopter maintenance and operations. With its enhanced defensive capabilities and a crew of 239 personnel, the JSS can also support the RCN in high threat environments ensuring our continued safety and security at home and abroad.
General:
Builder: Seaspan Shipyards
Owner: Royal Canadian Navy
Names of Ships: Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Protecteur and Preserver
Dimensions:
Length Overall: 173.7 m
Breadth: 24.0 m
Design Waterline/ Draft: 7.4 m
Design Displacement: 19,648 t
Power and Performance:
Max Speed: 20 knots
Cruising Speed: 15 knots
Propulsion Power: 2 x 7200kW
