According to information published by the US DoD on March 14, 2023, the Navy accepted delivery of the next-generation landing craft, Ship to Shore Connector (SSC), Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 105.
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Ship-to-Shore Connector LCAC. (Picture source: Textron)
LCACs are built with configurations, dimensions, and clearances similar to the legacy LCACs they replace – ensuring that this latest air cushion vehicle is fully compatible with existing well-deck-equipped amphibious ships, the Expeditionary Sea Base and the Expeditionary Transfer Dock.
LCACs are capable of carrying a 60-75 ton payload. They primarily transport weapon systems, equipment, cargo, and assault element personnel through a wide range of conditions, including over-the-beach.
The delivery of LCAC 105 comes after the completion of acceptance trials conducted by the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey, which tested the readiness and capability of the craft to effectively meet its requirements.
About the Ship to Shore Connector
The Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) is a hovercraft designed for the United States Navy that will be used to transport equipment, weapons, and personnel from amphibious ships to shore.
She is based on the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) design, but with several significant differences. The cockpit of the SSC will have a two-person fly-by-wire system with joystick controls, and the craft will be powered by four Rolls-Royce MT7 gas turbines that are more powerful and more efficient than the engines used in the LCAC. The use of composites and aluminum alloys in the construction of the SSC will also provide greater corrosion resistance.
In addition, the SSC will feature an advanced skirt to reduce drag and craft weight, and a simpler and more efficient drivetrain that uses one gearbox on each side for fewer parts, less maintenance, and higher reliability. The top speed of the SSC is expected to be 50 knots (58 mph; 93 km/h).
