Amphibious

Ship Designations: (AGC, IFS, LFR, LHA, LHD, LKA, LPD, LLC, LPH, LSD, LSM, LSMR, LST, LSV)

Navy amphibious ships are specialized vessels designed to support the landing of troops and equipment on hostile shores. These ships are a crucial part of naval operations and can carry a variety of equipment, including landing craft, helicopters, and vehicles. They are equipped to launch assaults from the sea, enabling the projection of military power and humanitarian aid in areas that are otherwise difficult to access. The primary types of amphibious ships include:

• Amphibious Assault Ships (LHD/LHA): These are the largest type of amphibious ship, resembling small aircraft carriers. They can carry helicopters and vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft, such as the AV-8B Harrier or the F-35B.
• Amphibious Transport Dock Ships (LPD): These ships transport and land Marines, their equipment, and supplies. They are equipped with well decks for landing craft and flight decks for helicopters.
• Dock Landing Ships (LSD): Similar to LPDs, these ships have well decks to launch and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles. They are crucial for landing heavy equipment and vehicles.
• Landing Ship Tank (LST): These ships have a bow door and ramp to allow vehicles and cargo to be driven directly onto the shore. They are less common in modern navies but were heavily used during World War II.

These ships play a vital role in amphibious operations, allowing for rapid deployment and support of troops in diverse environments.