LHA-1 Tarawa-class

Summary

Description

The Carrier LHA-1 Tarawa class is a series of amphibious assault ships designed and built for the United States Navy. Named after the Battle of Tarawa during World War II, these carriers are one of the largest of their kind in the world. The Tarawa class is specifically designed to provide a mobile, flexible, and potent platform for conducting amphibious operations.

These carriers are approximately 820 feet long and have a displacement of around 40,500 tons. With a flight deck that spans over 800 feet, the Tarawa class can accommodate a wide range of helicopters, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, and short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft.

Equipped with an arsenal of advanced weaponry, these carriers are capable of supporting a variety of offensive and defensive operations. They are armed with the Phalanx Close-in Weapon System for defense against close-range threats, and have multiple Mark 36 SRBOC (Super Rapid Bloom Offboard Countermeasures) launchers for defense against anti-ship missiles. The Tarawa class is also equipped with surface-to-surface missiles for long-range engagements.

In terms of troop carrying capacity, the carriers of the Tarawa class can accommodate over 1,900 marines along with their equipment and vehicles. They have a well deck at the rear, which allows for the launch and recovery of amphibious vehicles, including Landing Craft Air Cushions (LCACs).

Furthermore, the Tarawa class carriers are equipped with advanced command, control, and communication systems, enhancing the coordination and effectiveness of amphibious operations. They also have facilities for medical support, maintenance, and aviation fuel storage.

Technical specifications

Photo of LHA-1 Tarawa class