The AV-8B Goes Aboard - TACAIR Operations from the LHD 1

The detachment of Marine Corps AV-8B V/STOL Fighter - Attack aircraft operating from the new LHD 1 Class Multipurpose Amphibious Ship will be an extremely potent weapon system with a variety of mission applications. The LHD is the first ship specifically designed to support and operate the AV-8B V/STOL aircraft, making the ship an even more effective platform for tactical support of amphibious operations. The LHD 1 is the marriage of logistical support with operational requirements which includes all the numerous support and weapons stowage/handling facilities tailored to operate the AV-8B in an autonomous role. This will allow the projection of a tactical air capability into areas where none previously existed and the ship/aircraft system will provide a greater degree of flexibility for the Amphibious Ready Group than previously seen. Augmentation with a Carrier Battle Group would also provide a cost effective force multiplier.