How an LHD integrates an amphibious force

The cutaway reveals a ship organized around moving different loads through different routes. Light cargo can rise through the hangar to helicopters on the flight deck, while tanks and other heavy equipment descend by ramps to landing craft in the well deck. Storage, troop spaces, aviation, boats, and internal access must work as one system if the assault force is to arrive with its sustainment. That integration makes an LHD a one-stop amphibious capability and an unusually flexible flagship for small and medium navies as well as major powers.