Newport-class

Summary

Description

The Newport-class tank landing ships were advanced vessels designed to enhance the United States Navy's amphibious forces' capabilities. These ships were in service from 1969 to 2002, with a plan to build 27 units, but only twenty were completed. Renowned for being larger and faster than any previous LST, they were the first to feature a unique bow ramp design that enabled them to attain speeds surpassing 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph). However, advancements in amphibious assault technology, such as air-cushioned landing craft, deemed them obsolete, leading to their decommissioning, with eight scrapped and twelve sold to foreign navies.

The Newport class boasted significant design innovations, departing from the standard LST blueprint of the World War II era. The ships' hallmark was the 112-foot (34 m) aluminum bow ramp supported by two derrick arms, enabling them to handle heavy loads while maintaining high-speed capabilities. The first few ships were powered by six General Motors 16-645-ES diesel engines, and the rest by ALCO 16-251 diesel engines, delivering a combined 16,500 brake horsepower (12,300 kW). This allowed for a top speed of 22 knots (41 km/h; 25 mph), although 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph) was the sustainable cruising speed.

They were armed initially with four Mark 33 3-inch/50 caliber guns in twin mounts, later removed for weight reduction. Their cargo capacity was significant, with a capability to transport 500 long tons (510 t) of vehicles, and they could carry up to 431 troops. The vessels also featured a stern gate, turntables for vehicle maneuvering, davits for landing craft, and space for pontoon causeway sections.

The Newport class served gallantly despite their eventual obsolescence. They were essential for transporting large volumes of fuel and other supplies until the introduction of new logistics technologies. Various foreign navies acquired some of these LSTs, and they underwent modifications to extend their utility. The Royal Australian Navy transformed two into Kanimbla-class amphibious platforms, while other countries like Brazil, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Spain, and Taiwan also operated the vessels for different periods, with varying levels of modification and operational use.

These LSTs have now been replaced by more advanced amphibious ships in the US Navy. Some foreign-operated ships have been decommissioned due to age, while others were sold for scrap or suffered incidents that led to their retirement.

Technical specifications