LPD Flight II

The LPD Flight II program, as detailed in Budget Line Item 3010, is a major Navy shipbuilding initiative under the Shipbuilding and Conversion, Navy appropriation. The program's primary objective is to procure and deliver the next generation of amphibious transport dock ships, specifically the LPD 17 Flight II class, to replace the aging LSD-41 and LSD-49 class ships. These vessels are designed to embark, transport, control, insert, sustain, and extract Marine Air-Ground Task Force elements and supporting forces using helicopters, landing craft, and amphibious vehicles. The program is managed by the Department of the Navy, with Huntington Ingalls Industries serving as the primary shipbuilder.

For Fiscal Year 2026, the LPD Flight II Procurement request supports the contract award for one ship, incremental funding for another, and advance procurement for a third. This approach ensures continuity in shipbuilding, maintains production schedules, and supports the industrial base by securing critical components in advance.

The Multi-Ship Procurement (MSP) contract, awarded in September 2024, covers multiple ships with the intent to achieve cost savings, schedule stability, and efficient resource allocation. The MSP contract includes advance procurement funding for long lead time materials such as engines, diesel generators, reduction gears, propellers, and government-furnished equipment. This procurement strategy is intended to mitigate schedule risks and maintain the shipyard workforce, especially in light of recent construction delays attributed to labor challenges.

The LPD 17 Flight II Class Ships are equipped with advanced mission systems and defensive capabilities. Key systems include the Ship Self Defense System (SSDS), Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC), AN/SLQ-32(V)6 Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP), RAM Block II missiles, MK 46 guns, AN/SPQ-9B radar, and the AN/SPY-6(V)2 Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar (EASR). These systems are integrated to provide robust self-defense, situational awareness, and interoperability with joint and allied forces. The ships also feature modern C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) suites, supporting network-centric operations.

In terms of cost structure and schedule, the program allocates funding across basic construction, electronics, hull, mechanical and electrical systems, and ordnance. The construction timeline for each ship averages 7-9 years from contract award to delivery, with scheduled deliveries reflecting adjustments due to shipyard labor challenges, which have impacted start and delivery dates.

The Advance Procurement line item is critical for maintaining the production schedule and mitigating risks associated with long lead time materials. Advance procurement funding will be used to purchase essential components well ahead of construction start, ensuring that the shipbuilding process is not delayed by supply chain disruptions or material shortages. This funding also supports the Navy's goal of sustaining a healthy shipbuilding industrial base.

The LPD Flight II program is a cornerstone of the Navy's amphibious ship modernization strategy. Its goals are to deliver capable, survivable, and flexible platforms that meet current and future operational requirements for amphibious warfare, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response. The program's objectives are justified by the need to replace legacy ships, maintain force structure, and provide the Marine Corps and joint forces with modern, integrated, and networked amphibious capabilities.