The Effect of Shipboard Design Decisions in Amphibious Warfare

Abstract

Recently, a major decision was made by the Navy to eliminate a key capability from the future ship of the amphibious fleet. The removal of the well deck from the future LHA (R) amphibious assault ship is attempting to change the way the Navy and Marine Corps have conducted amphibious operations over the past several decades. This thesis will look at the current and future amphibious capabilities in order to develop equations to quantitatively analyze the lift capabilities associated with future design choices to determine the effects of changing the design in the LHA (R) class of amphibious assault ships. A comparative analysis of the tradeoffs, capabilities, and limitations associated with and without having a well deck was completed in order to determine the most effective means to operate. By looking at data on the MV-22 Osprey and F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, such as lift capabilities and ranges, and comparing it to the various landing craft data (LCACs, LCUs and AAVs), this thesis will determine the effects on mission capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps.