The U.S. Navy accepted delivery of ship to shore connector, landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) 112 from Textron Systems on March 13.
The delivery follows the completion of acceptance trials and marks the official transfer of the craft from the shipbuilder to the Navy. During these trials, the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey assessed the craft’s readiness and capability to meet operational requirements.
The LCAC is designed with similar configurations, dimensions, and clearances to legacy LCACs, ensuring compatibility with existing well deck-equipped amphibious ships, Naval Sea Systems Command reported. The craft can carry a payload of approximately 60 to 75 tons, transporting weapon systems, equipment, cargo, and assault personnel in various conditions, including over-the-beach operations.
“This new craft will provide the Navy and Marine Corps team with unparalleled capability in amphibious warfare, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to emerging threats and global challenges,” said Angela Bonner, program manager for amphibious assault and connectors programs, Program Executive Office, Ships (PEO Ships).
Textron Systems is in serial production of LCACs 113-125.
PEO Ships, one of the Department of Defense’s largest acquisition organizations, manages the development and procurement of destroyers, amphibious ships and craft, auxiliary ships, special mission ships, sealift ships, and support ships.
“The successful delivery of LCAC 112 demonstrates the strong partnership between the Navy and Textron Systems,” Bonner said. “This advanced craft will significantly enhance operations, providing a critical link in our ability to project power and support joint operations across the globe.”
