America-class (LHA-6)

The program for this landing helicopter assault class was initiated to replace the aging Tarawa-class warships. Its design is derived from the final vessel of the Wasp class, incorporating a hybrid-electric propulsion system. The initial vessels, designated as Flight 0, were developed with a specialized focus on aviation facilities, which necessitated the removal of the traditional well deck and a significant reduction in the size of the onboard medical complex. Later iterations of the class have been modified to reintegrate the well deck to accommodate heavier military vehicles and landing craft, responding to evolving requirements for amphibious warfare.

These warships function as aviation-capable amphibious assault platforms, designed to support V/STOL aircraft, tilt-rotors, and various attack and utility helicopters. The hull utilizes a combination of gas turbines and diesel-electric engines for propulsion. By omitting the well deck in early versions, the design provides increased volume for aircraft maintenance, fuel storage, and munitions. The ships are equipped with multi-dimensional air search radars and electronic warfare decoys for threat detection and mitigation. Defensive armament consists of surface-to-air missile launchers and close-in weapon systems. The use of a common fuel type for both the propulsion system and the embarked aircraft serves to simplify the vessel's logistical footprint.

The class is primarily utilized to put Marine Expeditionary Units ashore, emphasizing the use of long-range tilt-rotor aircraft to project force from positions further offshore. This operational stance is a response to the proliferation of anti-ship missiles and land-based precision fires. These vessels can also be configured to operate as small aircraft carriers by embarking a larger complement of multi-role jet fighters. Operational experience has necessitated structural modifications to the flight decks to withstand the thermal exhaust produced by modern aircraft during sustained operations. While the initial design prioritized air assets, the transition back to well-deck-equipped hulls in subsequent vessels reflects the requirement to deliver up-armored ground vehicles that cannot be efficiently transported by air.