Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) Project

Source-This post on Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) Project is based on the article “How the United States plans to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza” published in “The Indian Express” on 18th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The United States, as part of the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) project, is planning to construct a floating pier off the coast of Gaza to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

What is Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS)?

1. About– JLOTS is a military project by the US Department of Defense.

2. Objective– Its main objective is to enhance the military’s capacity for logistics operations in regions where there is a lack of adequate fixed port facilities.

3. Operational features:
a. These operations involve teamwork among military branches. The navy transports and secures goods, while the army or other agencies handle tasks like building infrastructure and delivery.
b. JLOTS uses special equipment like floating causeways and barges to move cargo between ships and shore, even in challenging areas.

4. Significance– This is especially useful during humanitarian and disaster relief efforts when quick delivery of aid is essential. The US military has used JLOTS before in Kuwait, Somalia, Haiti, and Central America for disaster relief missions.

JLOTS in Gaza

1. About– The floating pier in Gaza will be constructed without any direct US military involvement. Instead, the US will collaborate with Fogbow, a private company led by former military and intelligence personnel.

2. Components– The project will have two main parts: a floating dock and a pier about 548 meters long with a causeway.

a. The Floating Dock- The steel floating dock will be transported by a roll-on, roll-off ship, designed for heavy cargo. While the pier links to the shore, the dock can be positioned up to a kilometer away, preventing aid ships from getting stuck in shallow coastal waters.

b. Pier and causeway– After the ship unloads aid on the dock, smaller Logistics Support Vessels (LSVs) will ferry the cargo to the floating pier or jetty connected to the shore. The pier will feature a causeway extension to prevent vehicles transporting aid from getting stuck in soft sand.

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology/International Relations