HII launches Fort Lauderdale amphibious transport dock
Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) launched the USN’s new San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28) on 28 March in Pascagoula, Mississippi.
A rail car system was used to move the ship to HII’s dry dock which was then flooded after it was moved away from the pier leaving it to float in the dock.
The vessel is 684ft long and 105ft wide and is designed to land and embark Marines, equipment and military supplies using an air cushion or conventional landing craft or amphibious assault vehicles. It is powered by a MAN Diesel & Turbo PC2.5 STC marine engine.
HII also suggests that LPD 28 may be used for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions alongside maritime security carried out by a Marine Air Ground Task Force.
The company is constructing a total of 26 San Antonio class ships including 13 Flight I and 13 Flight II models.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.