JP 2048 Phase 3

Is anyone out there in possesion of any information as to the types being offered as replacements for the RAN’s Balikpapan Class LCH’s and the LCVP’s?

Under the current terms of this broard program I know that the Army’s watercraft (LCM8’s) are being replaced with new vessels that have now entered service with the RAN. These ADI build vessels have a lighter displacement but can carry a heavier load (including the new Abrams tanks) in a two lane configuration and also have a rear ramp for ro-ro ops (though wether the MBT’s can fit through the rear ramp is questionable to me as it is much narrower than the forward ramp.

The fact that all six have entered service under budget and under time speaks volumes as to how seriously these were needed and how quick they can replace the LCM8’s.

In anycase I really am trying to focus my attention on the LCH replacements with a slight interest in the other vessels for now.

Specs and details of the RAN Balikpapan class LCH up for replacement.
Six in the class: HMAS Balikpapan, HMAS Betano, HMAS Brunei, HMAS Labuan, HMAS Trarkan and HMAS Wewak

The Heavy Landing Craft is an extremely important vessel, capable of moving large amounts of cargo, personnel and equipment from larger ships to shore. A very shallow draft allows these ships to deliver troops and equipment to areas otherwise unreachable.

Six LCH’s form part of the Royal Australian Navy today. HMAS BRUNEI commissioned into the Fleet in January 1973 while HMAS BALIKPAPAN, the prototype LCH, was originally operated by Army Water Transport. She transferred to the RAN in September 1974.

The LCH is an all-welded twin-screw vessel, able to trans-ship cargo and supplies from ships lying offshore to water terminals or across the beach. Maximum cargo load is governed by the load-fuel balance and varies between 140 and 180 tonnes. A typical load of 175 tonnes gives the LCH a range of 1300 nautical miles, increasing to 2280 nautical miles for a load of 150 tonnes.

Usual Army equipment lift can comprise three battle tanks, twenty-three quarter-tonne trucks or thirteen armored personnel carriers.

All six LCHs are currently active, with two based in Darwin and four in Cairns.