The US Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) has chosen Damen Shipyards Group’s Landing Ship Transport (LST)100 design for its Medium Landing Ship (LSM) programme.
The selection follows a technical data package (TDP) awarded to Damen in July 2025.
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A total of up to 35 vessels are planned to be constructed based on the LST100 design at shipyards across the US.
The LSM initiative is intended to strengthen the US Navy’s ability to transport and deploy Marine Corps units in challenging operational settings.
NAVSEA issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the programme at the start of 2025, seeking a proven sea-going vessel that would allow for rapid delivery to the fleet.
Damen previously delivered an LST100 model, which enabled NAVSEA officials to inspect a functioning ship before making their selection.
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By GlobalDataDamen Americas area manager Alan Borde said: “We are delighted at NAVSEA’s selection of the LST100 for its LSM programme. We are very much looking forward to continuing our cooperation with American shipyards during the construction of these vessels in the coming years. We enjoy long-standing relationships with a number of these yards, having supported their construction of our vessel designs over the last decades.”
The LST100 measures 100.68 metres (m) in length, with a beam of 16m and a draught of 3.58m.
The vessel can transport personnel, vehicles, equipment and cargo, and is intended for varied uses including patrols, landings, surveying, reconnaissance and delivery of humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
Standard configuration accommodates bunks for 282 personnel.
The vessel features a RoRo deck spanning 500m², a vehicle deck covering 400m², and a helicopter deck suitable for additional cargo.
The LST100 can reach speeds up to 14 knots, with an endurance of 3,890 nautical miles at full speed or 7,530 nautical miles when operating at 10 knots.
The modular layout allows the LST100 to be adapted or enlarged during construction without affecting standardisation, including conversion into the larger LST120 design through the addition of a standard modular section.
In 2024, the Australian government also opted for the LST100 design for its Defence Force’s Landing Craft Heavy programme, with plans for up to eight vessels to be constructed by Australian shipyards.
