Future Light Amphibious Warship could be built to mixed naval-commercial standards
The USN and USMC future Light Amphibious Warship (LAW) could potentially be built to mixed naval-commercial standards in a bid to keep programme costs under control and the development timeline on track.
In such an eventuality, platform elements focused on survivability would see naval standards applied, while commercial build standards could be kept in other areas. Navies around the world build to different standards, with many opting for commercial-naval hybrid designs which can significantly reduce cost.
The high cost and mixed success of recent US shipbuilding efforts, such as the Zumwalt-class destroyers and Littoral Combat Ship programme, has prompted
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
-
Eurosatory 2026: Red Cat eyes South American market for USV-led EEZ surveillance
Success with the US Army’s Black Widow programme may have strengthened Red Cat’s international position, but executives believe the next growth opportunity lies in uncrewed surface vessels.
-
US weighs offshore warship production due to industrial limits
A Pentagon push to procure warships from Japanese and South Korean shipyards could reshape allied naval industrial strategy, but critics warn the approach risks hollowing out the domestic base Washington is seeking to restore.
-
Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA
The accelerated delivery of the final Flight IIA destroyer, USS Patrick Gallagher, showcases the payoff of years of workforce investment and process reform at Bath Iron Works, with the lessons feeding into Flight III production.