The US Navy christened the Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV) “Spearhead” on September 17, 2011, at a ceremony at Austal’s US shipyard in Mobile, Alabama.
The 103 metre aluminium catamaran, “Spearhead”, is the first of its class under construction at Austal USA.
“Spearhead” and the nine other JHSVs under contract are ideal for fast, intra?theater transportation of troops, military vehicles, supplies and equipment.
They are capable of transporting 600 short tons, 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow?draft ports and waterways, providing U.S. forces added mobility and flexibility.
The JHSVs also have an aviation flight deck to support day and night air vehicle launch and recovery operations. JHSVs have berthing space for up to 146 personnel and airline?style seating for up to 312.
Military commanders will have the flexibility to use the JHSV in a variety of roles to include supporting overseas contingency operations, conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supporting special operations forces and supporting emerging joint sea?basing concepts.
Upon delivery to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), “Spearhead” will be designated as a United States Naval Ship (USNS), and will have a core crew of 21 civilian mariners who will operate and navigate the ships.