LLTM funding increases again for LHA 9
USS America (LHA 6), pictured in February 2020 in the Pacific Ocean. (Photo: USN/Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Nicholas Huynh)
Latest long-lead materials contract will support construction of the fourth America-class assault ship.
Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) has received another contract from US Naval Sea Systems Command to provide long lead-time materials (LLTM) in support of the fourth America-class Landing Helicopter Assault ship (LHA 9).
LHA 9 is the second Flight 1 variant in the America class, meaning that it will be built with a well deck.
Work on the latest $113.69 million contract will be performed at nine US locations for completion by April 2024, the DoD announced on 19 November.
The America class will ultimately comprise up to 11 vessels to replace the Tarawa-class and Wasp-class amphibious assault ships in USN service.
Two America-class vessels have been delivered so far.
Shephard Defence Insight expects construction of LHA 9 to start in September 2022 and delivery expected in September 2028.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
LHA Replacement Programme [USN]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
