The U.S. Navy is grappling with a growing shortage of civilian mariners, a situation that could leave 17 key support ships out of action. The Military Sealift Command (MSC) has drafted a plan to reassign crews from these vessels to other ships in the fleet, potentially sidelining a significant portion of the Navy’s logistical support capabilities.
The ships impacted include Lewis and Clark-class replenishment ships, Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transports, and two forward-deployed expeditionary sea bases. These vessels provide essential refueling and resupply services to the Navy’s global operations. Among the ships targeted for crew reassignment are the USS Lewis Puller, stationed in Bahrain, and the USS Herschel “Woody” Williams, based in Greece.
The shortage of mariners is linked to a combination of poor working conditions, extended deployments, and lingering effects of COVID-19 restrictions. Former mariners describe a grueling schedule that has driven many to leave MSC for less demanding jobs. The loss of experienced mariners has outpaced recruitment efforts, leading to a critical manpower gap that is now threatening the Navy’s operational readiness.
Defense analysts like Sal Mercogliano argue that the crisis is the result of long-term neglect and poor management. “They are just burning through people,” he noted, pointing to the unsustainable practices that have left the Navy scrambling for solutions. While the plan to reassign crews may offer temporary relief, the broader issues facing MSC could have lasting impacts on the Navy’s ability to project power and maintain global presence.
