The U.S. Navy’s ability to maintain its global logistics operations is under threat due to a significant shortage of civilian mariners. The Military Sealift Command (MSC) has outlined a plan that could see 17 support ships taken offline as mariners are reassigned to other vessels in the fleet. The potential move reflects the Navy’s struggle to balance its operational needs with a dwindling workforce.
Among the ships that could be impacted are two Lewis and Clark-class replenishment ships, 12 Spearhead-class fast transports, and two forward-deployed expeditionary sea bases. These vessels are essential to refueling and resupplying Navy ships across multiple theaters, including the Middle East and Europe. The USS Lewis Puller and USS Herschel “Woody” Williams are notable among the ships that may be put into extended maintenance as part of this plan.
The shortage stems from years of poor retention within MSC, compounded by the harsh conditions mariners faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mariners were stuck on ships for extended periods without relief, leading to frustration and an exodus from the service. The result is that MSC is struggling to replace those who left, putting the Navy in a precarious position.
Defense analysts warn that the inability to keep these ships operational could have serious strategic consequences, especially in regions where the U.S. faces challenges from rival powers. The Navy is now caught in a bind, with its global mission at risk if it can’t address the underlying issues causing this manpower crisis.
