Blue Ridge-class (LCC-19)

The Blue Ridge class consists of two amphibious command and control ships operated by the United States Navy. It is the first class of its type designed for this specific role from the keel up. Development followed seven years of planning under the designations SCB-248 and SCB-400.65. The design utilized the Iwo Jima-class amphibious assault ship hull as a basis, as the flight deck configuration allowed for the distancing of antennas to minimize electronic interference and served as a ground plane. The standard island was replaced with a centralized superstructure.

The class provides the facilities required to support the staff of both the Commander of an Amphibious Task Force and the Commanding General of the Landing Force. The ships were equipped with computer systems, communications packages, and surveillance and detection systems. At the time of commissioning, the electronics suite was larger and more complex than those found on contemporary aircraft carriers. The communications architecture utilized an automated patch panel and computer-controlled switching matrix to manage equipment configurations.

Communications systems originally relied on high-frequency radio utilizing long wire, discone, and log-periodic antennas. These were later removed and replaced with satellite communications antennas. The ship's deck is capable of carrying most helicopter types, with the exception of the CH-53 Sea Stallion. The class was initially equipped with deck guns and point defense missile systems, which were later removed. Subsequent refits added Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) and machine guns for point defense.

Of three planned vessels, two were completed. The Philadelphia Naval Shipyard built the lead ship, USS Blue Ridge, which entered service in 1970. Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company built the second vessel, USS Mount Whitney, which entered service in 1971. Both ships remain in active commission.