LxD-class amphibious warfare ship explained

The LxD is an initiative by the Italian Navy to procure a series of two amphibious warfare ships (with the option for a third vessel) as a replacement for the aging .

History

The Italian Navy received the approval in 2010 to procure two 20,000-ton 190m (620feet) long amphibious assault ships (landing helicopter dock), with the possibility of a third ship, configured with extensive aviation facilities (landing helicopter assault).^[1]

In more recent designs the ships are shown as 16,500-ton 160m (530feet) landing platform docks with two helicopter landing spots on the aft deck.^{[2] [3]} The first two ships are expected to enter service from 2028 to 2030. If the option is taken, the third ship will enter service after 2031.^[4]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Italy Paves the Way for New Amphibious Assault Vessels . Defence IQ . 19 July 2010 . 31 July 2023 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20101229095101/http://defenceiq.com/article.cfm?externalID=2725 . 29 December 2010 . dmy-all .
2. Web site: Onwards And Forwards – Italian Navy Program Update . Naval News . 11 July 2023 . 31 July 2023.
3. Web site: Italy’s new warships will boast bigger bellies for landing forces . Defense News . 15 May 2023 . 31 July 2023.
4. Web site: The Italian Navy plans to purchase three new 16,500-ton amphibious ships . INF News . 31 July 2023.