Figure 13-12.—Classes of aircraft carriers.
AMPHIBIOUS SHIPS
Amphibious ships are designed to move combat
personnel and equipment ashore. With the exception
of shore bombardment, the armament of amphibious
ships is usually intended for defensive purposes only.
We will discuss a few of the amphibious ships in the
following paragraphs.
The largest amphibious ships (LHDs, LHAs) can
be identified by the large boxlike superstructure. They
measure from 800 to 850 feet and displace 28,000 to
40,000 tons. Amphibious command ships (LCC) can
be identified by their visible electronic gear; they
measure 620 feet and displace 19,000 tons.
Amphibious transport docks (LPDs) can be identified
by their having weaponry forward and a flight deck
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