Tank landing ships. Tank landing ships (LSTs)(fig. 8-29) were developed during World War II. TheNavy required a ship capable of transporting troops,tanks, ammunition, and all sorts of supplies. The LSTsof today’s fleet are fitted with bow doors and a bow rampthat give access to the tank deck. Another ramp andturntable in the tank deck enable vehicles to turn aroundand reach the main deck under their own power. Theyalso have a stern gate that permits off-loading ofamphibious vehicles directly into the water. In additionto transporting and landing equipment in amphibiousassaults, these ships can transport and launch a pontooncauseway section in support of amphibious operations.With booms and winches mounted on the main deckforward, this class of ship is capable of numerousmissions. They carry one 20mm Phalanxand two25mm Mk3 machine guns.Amphibious command ships. Amphibiouscommand ships (LCCs) (fig. 8-30) provide amphibious8-24Student Notes:Photograph courtesy of JO2(SW/AW) Tyler A. SwartzFigure 8-25.—USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6).Photograph courtesy of PH2 Felix GarzaFigure 8-26.—USS Duluth (LPD 6).Photograph courtesy of PH2 Todd R. Cromer.Figure 8-27.—USS Comstock (LSD 45).
Integrated Publishing, Inc. - A (SDVOSB) Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business
