The US Navy has received the newest Ship to Shore Connector (SSC), the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 114, which will improve the service’s amphibious capability.
The new addition, delivered by Textron Systems, will also provide deployment and logistical support to the US Navy.
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The handover of LCAC 114 was finalised following the successful completion of rigorous acceptance trials, signifying the craft’s transition from the manufacturer to active naval service.
During the trials, the next-generation air cushion vehicle was subjected comprehensive evaluations by the Board of Inspection and Survey to ensure it met operational standards.
Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships Amphibious Assault and Connectors Programs acting programme manager Angela Bonner said: “The delivery of LCAC 114 reinforces the urgency needed to deliver amphibious capabilities to the Navy and Marine Corps team.”
Designed to seamlessly integrate with the Navy’s existing amphibious ships, LCAC 114 maintains the same configurations and dimensions as its predecessors, ensuring full compatibility with well deck-equipped vessels.
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By GlobalDataThe craft is capable of transporting payloads ranging from 60 to 75 tonnes, including weaponry, equipment, cargo, and personnel across diverse terrains and conditions.
Textron Systems is actively producing additional LCACs, with units 115 through 126 currently under construction.
PEO Ships, a key acquisition entity within the Department of Defense, oversees the development and procurement of various naval vessels, including destroyers, amphibious ships and craft, auxiliary ships, special mission ships, sealift ships, and support ships.
The US Navy took delivery of the SSC LCAC 105 in 2023.
The new SSCs are expected to replace the existing fleet of LCAC vehicles and are designed to maintain compatibility with legacy models in terms of size and operational clearances.
