Textron Systems awarded $312M Navy contract for Ship-to-Shore Connectors.

According to information published by the US DoD on July 18, 2024, Textron Systems, based in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been awarded a modification to a prior contract, valued at $312,389,283. This modification supports the procurement of materials and both recurring and non-recurring activities for the construction of up to nine future ship-to-shore connector landing craft air cushion (100 class) vessels.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

US Navy's Ship-to-Shore Connector. (Picture source: Textron Systems)

The Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) is an advanced air cushion vehicle designed by Textron Systems to replace the aging LCAC fleet of the U.S. Navy. This new craft is integral to enhancing the Navy’s amphibious capabilities, offering rapid deployment and logistical support across various environments, including difficult shorelines and beach landings.

The SSC boasts a payload capacity of up to 74 tons, enabling it to transport vehicles, equipment, and personnel efficiently. Its speed and range are significantly improved, with the ability to reach 35 knots even in challenging sea conditions, reducing the number of trips required for missions.

Constructed from aluminum, the SSC is designed for reliability and ease of maintenance, incorporating modern engineering enhancements that ensure better performance and lower lifecycle costs.

In terms of design, the SSC maintains similar dimensions and clearances to the older LCAC models, ensuring compatibility with existing amphibious ships equipped with well decks.

This compatibility facilitates seamless integration into current naval operations. The SSC also features a "drive through" ramp for efficient cargo handling and can operate without relying on port infrastructure, allowing it to access a majority of the world’s coastlines.

Despite initial technical challenges, such as gearbox reliability and blade cracking, the SSC program has made significant progress. The Navy has already accepted several SSC units, with ongoing production ensuring continuous delivery to meet operational needs. The SSC’s advanced capabilities and versatility make it a crucial asset for the Navy's amphibious warfare, providing enhanced operational readiness and flexibility​​.