New contracts signal renewed focus on amphibious warfare capabilities for US forces

Breaking Defense unveils that the Navy has awarded contracts to HII for the construction of four new amphibious warships, a move that is expected to save up to $901 million through a strategic block buy approach in a significant development for the US Navy's amphibious capabilities.  

Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro emphasised the significance of this purchase, stating, “The importance of this multiple amphibious ship acquisition cannot be overstated in relation to our government-wide initiative to restore the maritime capabilities of the United States. This purchase sends a strong demand signal to our shipbuilding industry that the Navy is actively investing in our shipbuilding infrastructure.”

The contracts, valued at $9.4 billion, include three San Antonio-class amphibious transport docks (LPD-33 in fiscal year 2025, LPD-34 in FY27, and LPD-35 in FY29) and one amphibious assault ship (LHA-10 in FY27), also known as a “large-deck amphib.” The San Antonio-class ships are part of a multi-ship procurement contract, while the America-class amphibious assault ship is included in a contract modification.

The number of amphibious ships in the fleet has become a pressing issue for the Navy and Marine Corps in recent years, with both the commandant and the chief of naval operations affirming the need for a total of 31 ships. Lt. Gen. Eric Austin, the Marine Corps' top requirements officer, noted that the service currently meets that goal with 32 vessels, but this new contract will facilitate the retirement of older ships. Austin highlighted the importance of not only the quantity but also the readiness of these amphibious vessels, stating, “Another key point is that it’s not just about having 31 amphibs. It’s about maintaining a balance of 10 large-deck amphibs (the LHAs) and 21 LPDs. 

The Chief of Naval Operations’ NAVPLAN and various discussions have made it clear that readiness is crucial for supporting the forward presence demanded by our combatant commanders.” In August, Del Toro informed lawmakers that the service and HII had reached an agreement, with amphibious ships being constructed at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Mississippi. The four ships will facilitate amphibious assaults, special operations, and expeditionary warfare for US Marines, enabling rapid deployment and support for humanitarian and contingency missions, as stated in Del Toro's letter to lawmakers.

In achieving a common operating picture, it’s crucial for all parties to have the same situational awareness rather than identical equipment. A block buy allows the Navy and industry to set prices for multiple ships years ahead under one agreement, resulting in bulk purchasing savings for the Navy and scheduling stability for shipbuilders, which is often requested by industry leaders. 

Tom Rivers, a senior official at Naval Sea Systems Command overseeing shipbuilding programs, mentioned that most of the estimated $901 million in savings would stem from bulk material purchases, known as economic order quantities, for the three LPDs. He noted that one significant challenge for HII's Mississippi shipyard is increasing its workforce if more work comes in. The contracts include incentives aimed at helping HII hire, retain, and train personnel. This block buy has been anticipated for a long time, as lawmakers have consistently urged the Navy to secure more amphibious ships in light of the Marine Corps' pressing needs. 

By Naila Huseynova