Textron Systems Corporation has delivered its second next-generation air cushion vehicle, Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) LCAC 101, to the U.S. Navy on August 27, the company announced.
“We are proud to deliver the second SSC, LCAC 101, to the U.S. Navy and to continue our production commitment,” said Henry Finneral, Senior Vice President, Textron Systems. “The SSC provides an unparalleled and versatile capability to rapidly transport material and personnel, providing the Navy with the flexibility to move critical supplies where they are needed most.”
LCAC 101 successfully underwent rigorous Builder’s and Acceptance Trials. There are currently twelve additional SSCs in various states of production at Textron Systems’ New Orleans shipyard.
As the replacement for the existing fleet of Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles, SSCs will primarily transport weapon systems, equipment, cargo and personnel through austere environmental conditions to the beach. The craft can travel at a sustained 35 knots and has an increased payload and service life of 30 years. The SSC shares less than one percent of legacy LCAC original parts, representing a true upgrade for the LCAC forces at ACU 4, ACU 5 and NBU 7. Built with similar configurations, dimensions, and clearances to the legacy LCAC, the SSC is compatible with existing well deck-equipped amphibious ships, as well as Expeditionary Transfer Dock and Expeditionary Sea Bases.