From the US Navy website:
Joint High Speed Vessel -JHSV
Description
The JHSV Program is a result of a merger between the separate Army Theater Support Vessel (TSV) and Navy High Speed Connector (HSC) Programs. The merge was accomplished to take advantage of inherent commonalities and to create a more flexible asset for the DoD, and to leverage the Navy’s core competency in ship acquisition.
•The Joint High Speed Vessel program is a Navy led acquisition program. The Navy Program Office staff includes Navy, Army and Marine Corps personnel. PEO Ships will conduct acquisition for both services, but each service will fund its own ships.
•JHSV will provide the ability to lift medium loads quickly without reliance on shore based infrastructure and in austere environments over intra theater distances.
Features
JHSV will reach speeds of 35-45 knots, have draft under 15 feet, and allow for the rapid transit and deployment of conventional or Special Forces as well as equipment and supplies.
•JHSV will include a flight deck for helicopter operations and an off-load ramp that will allow vehicles to quickly drive off the ship. The ramp will be suitable for the types of austere piers and quay walls common in developing countries.
•A mature technology base already exists, and there is little need for further technology development to achieve required capabilities prior to production. JHSV has very low technology risks and challenges.
•JHSV will identify a common set of requirements and parameters for the hulls. Benefits envisioned are common hull forms, economies of scale, joint C4ISR capabilities, and reduced life cycle costs. The goal is to have a common hull and minimize the amount of service-unique equipment needed per ship.
Background
The Navy’s Program Executive Office, Ships, will conduct acquisition for the Army and Navy, but each service will fund its own ships. After delivery, each service will be responsible for manning, maintaining, and providing full life-cycle support for their respective vessels.
Program Status
The JHSV Initial Capabilities Document was approved by the Joint Requirements Oversight Council in November 2005 and the Analysis of Alternatives was completed in December 2005. A request for proposals was released in August 2007, and the lead ship is expected to be delivered in 2011.
Point Of Contact
Corporate Communications Office
Naval Sea Systems Command (SEA 00D)
Washington, DC 20376
Last Update: 10 October 2007