The Joint Support Ship (JSS) project represents a cornerstone of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, aimed at revitalizing the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) ability to sustain naval operations far from home shores. Tasked with replacing the aging auxiliary oiler replenishment (AOR) vessels, the construction of HMCS Protecteur and HMCS Preserver at Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards is a complex endeavor that underscores Canada’s commitment to a modern, capable naval fleet. As outlined by the Department of National Defence, the project has made significant strides, navigating challenges while delivering tangible progress toward operational readiness.
Project Origins and Strategic Importance
Launched in June 2010, the JSS project was designed to deliver two multi-role vessels under Canada’s defense policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged. These ships, based on the German Berlin-class design selected in 2013, are intended to provide underway support to naval task groups, enabling extended operations without reliance on foreign ports. Their capabilities include resupplying fuel, food, ammunition, and spare parts, as well as limited sealift, medical and dental facilities, and helicopter maintenance support. The Protecteur-class ships are critical for maintaining Canada’s naval presence in regions like the Indo-Pacific, supporting NATO missions, and enhancing interoperability with allies.
The strategic importance of the JSS cannot be overstated. As Commander Henwood noted, these vessels will allow the RCN to operate globally “without the need to rely on partner nations or port visits,” bolstering Canada’s sovereignty and operational independence. Equipped with advanced systems like 3D air search radar and encrypted tactical data links, the ships are not mere logistics platforms but integrated assets capable of contributing to combat operations.
Construction Milestones: HMCS Protecteur
The first ship, HMCS Protecteur (520), has reached significant construction milestones. By July 2022, 100 of the ship’s 123 blocks—modular structural units—were substantially complete, with the remaining structure finalized by year’s end. By October 2023, the ship was fully consolidated, meaning all major structural steel components were in place. Outfitting, a labor-intensive phase involving the installation of hundreds of kilometers of cabling and critical systems, is well underway. On December 10, 2024, Protecteur was moved aboard the heavy-lift ship Seaspan Careen for float-off and launch at Vancouver Shipyards, marking a pivotal step toward sea trials.
The construction process has incorporated lessons from earlier phases, improving efficiency. For instance, the modular block-building approach allows parallel work streams, reducing delays. Despite global supply chain disruptions and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project has maintained momentum, a testament to Seaspan’s coordination with suppliers and the government’s oversight.
Advancing HMCS Preserver
The second ship, HMCS Preserver (521), is following closely behind. Steel was cut for Preserver on May 16, 2022, with 45 of its 115 blocks under construction by October 2023. A ceremonial keel-laying on October 27, 2023, marked formal progress, with 43 blocks in assembly by late 2023. The ship benefits from insights gained during Protecteur’s construction, allowing Seaspan to refine processes and mitigate risks early. While Preserver lags behind its sister ship, the overlap in construction timelines reflects an optimized schedule to deliver both vessels within the decade.
Economic and Industrial Impact
Beyond its military significance, the JSS project is a driver of economic growth. Under the National Shipbuilding Strategy’s non-combat package, Seaspan was selected in 2011 following a competitive process. The project has generated substantial industrial benefits, with $949 million in Industrial and Regional Benefits (IRB) obligations, of which $308 million has been completed and $641 million is in progress. Additionally, Seaspan has committed $8.5 million to National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition obligations, with $9.2 million in approved investments fostering innovation and job creation. These investments have bolstered Canada’s marine industry, supporting suppliers and creating high-skilled jobs in British Columbia and beyond.
Challenges and Resilience
The JSS project has not been without hurdles. Supply chain issues, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, delayed progress, as did the need to balance construction with other Seaspan projects, such as the offshore oceanographic science vessel (OOSV). In 2019, the government re-sequenced construction to prioritize Protecteur, ensuring continuity. These challenges highlight the complexity of building Canada’s largest naval ships to date, each nearly 174 meters long. Yet, the project’s governance—bolstered by third-party oversight and industry collaboration—has kept it on track.
Looking Ahead
As HMCS Protecteur nears completion and Preserver advances, the RCN is poised to regain a vital capability lost with the retirement of its last AOR in 2016. The interim supply ship MV Asterix has bridged the gap, but the Protecteur-class ships promise a leap in capability and reliability. Delivery timelines project Protecteur entering service by 2025, with Preserver following by 2027, aligning with Canada’s broader naval modernization goals.
The JSS project exemplifies Canada’s ambition to rebuild its shipbuilding capacity while equipping the RCN for 21st-century challenges. As these ships take shape, they embody not just steel and systems but a renewed commitment to naval power, economic vitality, and global presence. The launch of Protecteur and the steady progress of Preserver signal that Canada’s maritime future is on course.
Sources: Government of Canada’s Joint Support Ship project page and related National Defence updates.
