Tank landing ships. Tank landing ships (LSTs)
(fig. 8-29) were developed during World War II. The
Navy required a ship capable of transporting troops,
tanks, ammunition, and all sorts of supplies. The LSTs
of today’s fleet are fitted with bow doors and a bow ramp
that give access to the tank deck. Another ramp and
turntable in the tank deck enable vehicles to turn around
and reach the main deck under their own power. They
also have a stern gate that permits off-loading of
amphibious vehicles directly into the water. In addition
to transporting and landing equipment in amphibious
assaults, these ships can transport and launch a pontoon
causeway section in support of amphibious operations.
With booms and winches mounted on the main deck
forward, this class of ship is capable of numerous
missions. They carry one 20mm Phalanx and two
25mm Mk3 machine guns.
Amphibious command ships. Amphibious
command ships (LCCs) (fig. 8-30) provide amphibious
8-24
Student Notes:
Photograph courtesy of JO2(SW/AW) Tyler A. Swartz
Figure 8-25.—USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6).
Photograph courtesy of PH2 Felix Garza
Figure 8-26.—USS Duluth (LPD 6).
Photograph courtesy of PH2 Todd R. Cromer.
Figure 8-27.—USS Comstock (LSD 45).
