The U.S. Navy’s San Antonio-class amphibious transport docks (LPDs) offer a versatile alternative to large nuclear-powered supercarriers. These 684-foot vessels can carry 66 officers, 633 Marines, and various aircraft and vehicles, providing a flexible platform for expeditionary warfare.
The U.S. Navy’s San Antonio-class amphibious transport docks (LPDs) offer a versatile alternative to large nuclear-powered supercarriers. These 684-foot vessels can carry 66 officers, 633 Marines, and various aircraft and vehicles, providing a flexible platform for expeditionary warfare.
The latest addition, USS Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD-29), was commissioned in Pensacola, honoring Capt. Richard M. McCool Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient. LPD-29 is the final Flight I variant, with 13 additional Flight II variants planned.
The U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered supercarriers are impressive warships able to project power around the globe. The problem is that the sea service doesn’t have enough of them. They cost a lot of time and money to build, and massive crews are required to operate them.
The future could see smaller, more easily replaceable vessels that can still project considerable power around the globe. The Navy already operates such a warship – the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, also known as a landing platform dock (LPD).
