Though having large amphibious ships with well decks is “absolutely critical” for some mission sets, budget pressures could force the Navy and Marine Corps to consider alternatives, Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work told service members in Guam on Wednesday. The next two amphibious assault ships, the USS America (LHA-6) and USS Tripoli (LHA-7) will be built without a well deck as “aviation-centric” ships, the Navy has said. The plan is to add the well deck back into LHA-8 and beyond…
