Answer: mainstays

AnswerCrossword Clue
MAINSTAYSBulwarks
MAINSTAYSUltra-reliable team members
MAINSTAYSPrincipal supports.
MAINSTAYSChief supports
mainstaysa ship's stay extending from the maintop forward usually to the foot of the foremast
mainstayschief support
mainstaysMAINSTAY, the principal support