U.S. Navy Orders Two More Ships From Austal

Austal has been charged by the U.S. Navy to build three Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1700-class vessels. The LCUs are capable of hauling heavy lifts with a max capacity of 170 tons. 

LCUs will be used by the Navy to support naval landings by transporting vehicles, cargo, and troops to the shore [Austal]. According to Austal's press release, the vessels have a crew of 13 and have a top speed of 11 knots. 

The news comes as the United States Navy and Marine Corps are focusing their efforts on fighting a war similar to the Pacific campaign in World War Two, which saw the U.S. make a series of amphibious landings in an island-hopping strategy. 

To find out more, visit Austal's website