New Vessel Program Aims to Enhance Operational Mobility in Austere Environments
The Navy and Marine Corps have announced the selection of Damen’s LST-100 design for the Medium Landing Ship program, a key component of their effort to reshape the fleet. The program aims to provide operational mobility in austere environments, such as the island chains in the Indo-Pacific. The LST-100 design offers a balance of capability, affordability, and speed to field, according to Navy Secretary John Phelan. The Marine Corps requires 35 ships, but the number is pending annual shipbuilding budgets. This development was first reported by Breaking Defense.