US Navy orders new San Antonio LPD as class's future remains uncertain
The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) pictured after sea trials. (Photo: US DoD)
The USN has awarded HII a $1.3 billion contract for the detail design and construction of the third Flight II San Antonio-class LPD, LPD-32, while question marks loom over the future of the class.
The award follows the FY 2024 US DoD Budget Request revealing a five-year pause in the USN's purchase of the amphibious ships amid concerns over rising costs.
Along with a 2022 award for long-lead items worth $240 million, the resulting cost of the ship totals $1.54 billion plus extra costs for government-furnished equipment.
Earlier this month, the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm Mike Gilday, estimated the ship's total cost could reach as high as $1.9 to $2 billion.
HII Ingalls Shipbuilding president Kari Wilkinson said: 'Our shipbuilders are dedicated to delivering these ships to our navy and marine corps
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