The Amphibious Fleet of Tomorrow
Abstract
The Navy needs to revolutionize the way it designs and builds the next generation of warships. With the amphibious fleet next in line for modernization, the Navy should give this group of ships improved warfighting capabilities. Currently, Naval amphibious ships rely on escorts from Carrier Battle Groups to protect them on the high seas in route to the Amphibious Objective Area and during the amphibious assault. These ships have no land attack, anti-air warfare, or anti-surface warfare capabilities. With the size of its fleet shrinking due to budget reductions and the decrease in the Soviet threat, the Navy should build a new class of amphibious ship that is equipped with guns, cruise missiles, surface-to-air missiles, electronic suites, and organic assault aircraft. This would allow Marine Amphibious Readiness Groups (MARGs) to conduct independent operations without relying on Carrier Battle Group escorts for protection. Response time would be reduced and forcible entry capabilities enhanced. Standardization of hull design would reduce production and maintenance costs. Additional cost savings would be realized by reduced escort requirements, thereby reducing operating costs. These ships will be able to defend themselves from all anticipated threats except antisubmarine warfare.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA525470
Entities
People
- Pat G. Mccartney
Organizations
- Marine Corps University