How Many Amphibious Assault Ships Does the U.S Have?
The United States Navy operates a fleet of amphibious assault ships, also known as LPHs (Landing Platform Helicopters) or LHA (Landing Helicopter Assault) ships, which play a crucial role in the country’s military operations. These ships are designed to transport and deploy troops, equipment, and aircraft, and to provide a mobile base for amphibious operations.
Direct Answer:
As of 2023, the United States Navy has a total of 9 amphibious assault ships in its active fleet.
Types of Amphibious Assault Ships:
The U.S. Navy operates two main types of amphibious assault ships:
- Wasp-class LHDs (Landing Helicopter Dock): These ships are designed to carry a large number of helicopters, V/STOL (Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft, and ground troops. They have a flight deck and a well deck for amphibious operations.
- America-class LHA(L) (Landing Helicopter Assault): These ships are designed to carry a mix of helicopters and V/STOL aircraft, as well as ground troops and equipment. They have a flight deck and a hangar deck for aircraft storage.
Active Fleet:
Here is a list of the 9 active amphibious assault ships in the U.S. Navy:
| Ship Name | Class | Commissioned | Homeport |
|---|---|---|---|
| USS Wasp (LHD-1) | Wasp | 1989 | Sasebo, Japan |
| USS Essex (LHD-2) | Wasp | 1992 | San Diego, California |
| USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) | Wasp | 1993 | Norfolk, Virginia |
| USS Boxer (LHD-4) | Wasp | 1995 | San Diego, California |
| USS Bataan (LHD-5) | Wasp | 1997 | Mayport, Florida |
| USS Pearl Harbor (LHD-9) | America | 2015 | San Diego, California |
| USS America (LHA-6) | America | 2014 | San Diego, California |
| USS Tripoli (LHA-7) | America | 2020 | San Diego, California |
| USS Bougainville (LHA-8) | America | 2023 | San Diego, California |
Future Fleet:
The U.S. Navy has plans to acquire additional amphibious assault ships in the future. The Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request includes funding for the procurement of two new America-class LHA(L) ships, LHA-9 and LHA-10. The Navy also plans to begin construction on a new class of amphibious assault ships, the LHA(X), which will replace the Wasp-class LHDs.
Role in Military Operations:
Amphibious assault ships play a critical role in the U.S. military’s ability to project power ashore. They can:
- Transport troops, equipment, and supplies
- Provide a mobile base for amphibious operations
- Support helicopter and V/STOL aircraft operations
- Serve as a floating command center
- Participate in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations
Conclusion:
The United States Navy operates a fleet of 9 amphibious assault ships, which play a vital role in the country’s military operations. The Navy plans to acquire additional ships in the future, including two new America-class LHA(L) ships and a new class of amphibious assault ships, the LHA(X). These ships will continue to play a critical role in the U.S. military’s ability to project power ashore and support a range of military operations.
References:
- U.S. Navy Fact File: Amphibious Assault Ships
- U.S. Navy Press Release: Navy Announces Acquisition of Two New America-class Amphibious Assault Ships
- U.S. Navy Budget Request: Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request
