Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:11:57-4:13:18

The operational difference between landing craft and landing ships

The distinction rests on operational scope: craft conduct the final ship-to-shore movement, while ships transport forces between theaters and may carry craft of their own.

Amphibious WarfareLanding CraftLanding ShipsShip To Shore Movement
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Question

When does a vessel carrying infantry become a landing ship rather than a landing craft or boat?

Short answer

When its role expands from the local ship-to-shore movement to strategic transport and support of the landing operation.

Notes

A landing craft conducts the ship-to-shore movement, although larger craft can also undertake a shore-to-shore passage. A landing ship transports a force over a strategic distance and then conducts or supports the landing. It may make the landing itself or carry smaller landing craft. Operational scope and capability define the distinction.