Canada issues long lead funding for JSS

The Canadian government has released USD$49 million in funding for Vancouver Shipyards to begin purchasing equipment for vessels to be built as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), the government of Canada announced on 14 March.

The two long lead contracts will allow Vancouver Shipyards to commence discussions with potential suppliers and begin purchasing material and equipment to build the navy's Joint Support Ships (JSS) and the coast guard's Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel (OOSV). Material such as generators, scientific equipment and propulsion systems will be purchased.

The JSS vessels will replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment vessels which were recently taken out of service. They will allow Naval Task Groups to remain at sea for long periods of time without going to shore for replenishment, providing fuel, ammunition, spare parts, food, and water to Canadian and allied vessels. The first JSS will be delivered in 2020 and will be operational later that year. The second ship will be operational in late 2021.

The 86m OOSV is being built under the non-combat package of the NSS. Construction of the vessel, which will allow critical scientific research to be performed, is expected to be completed in 2018/2019, in time for the 2019/2020 science season.

Judy Foote, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Canada, said: ‘These investments demonstrate our long-term commitment for continuous shipbuilding projects which will not only rejuvenate our marine industry, but also provide the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard with the ships they need to do their jobs at best value-for-money for Canadian taxpayers. By building these ships here in Canada we are bringing jobs and prosperity to many communities across the country.’