Our Nation’s military readiness and the security of American troops stationed overseas are directly dependent on our commercial sealift capability and the ability of the Department of Defense to respond quickly and effectively to international incidents. Without the requisite number of U.S.-flag vessels and their U.S. citizen crews ready to respond to DOD’s call, DOD’s surge and sustainment operations – its ability to deliver and supply the equipment needed to wage a successful campaign – will be weakened.
The Maritime Security Program (MSP) and the uninterrupted operation of its maritime security fleet of 60 U.S.-flag militarily-useful commercial vessels with U.S. citizen crews represent a critical component of America’s sealift capability and readiness. MSP vessels have been key contributors to our Nation’s efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq over the last decade. Since 2009, privately-owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels and their U.S. citizen crews have transported more than 90 percent of the cargo needed to support U.S. military operations and rebuilding programs in both countries. Of even greater significance, vessels enrolled in the MSP carried 99 percent of these cargoes. In addition, MSP carriers led the development of multi-modal services into Afghanistan via the Northern Distribution Network, providing a critical alternative route to resupply and support U.S. military forces.
It is for these reasons that Congress, in 2012, reaffirmed its strong support for the Maritime Security Program (MSP) by reauthorizing and extending the MSP and its maritime security fleet through 2025 and why today, Members of Congress are working to ensure that the funding levels authorized by the MSP continue to support the operation of militarily-useful U.S.-flag vessels. Led by Congressman Duncan Hunter, the House of Representatives has approved a proposal to increase the stipend available to MSP vessels from $3,1 to $3.5 million in FY’16. That proposal is now pending final action as part of the defense authorizations bill for FY’16. In addition, steps are underway to funding for MSP in FY’17 and beyond reflect the realities of today’s international shipping environment and meet the needs of the maritime security fleet.