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
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
-
![Thin-line towed arrays on uncrewed vessels deliver more cost-effective sonar, says SEA]()
Thin-line towed arrays on uncrewed vessels deliver more cost-effective sonar, says SEA
Miniaturisation of technology opens up radical sensing technologies to smaller navies under submarine threat, according to SEA sonar expert.
