The U.S. Navy officially accepted delivery of the Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) LCAC 114 from Textron Systems, following successful acceptance trials conducted by the Board of Inspection and Survey. The trials confirmed the craft’s performance and readiness for operational deployment.
This milestone is part of the Navy’s broader effort to replace its aging Landing Craft Air Cushion fleet with advanced connectors capable of sustaining expeditionary operations in contested littoral environments.
The new LCAC 114 represents the next generation of SSC platforms, offering greater reliability and survivability while maintaining the same dimensions as its predecessor—92 feet long and 48 feet wide—ensuring compatibility with Wasp- and America-class amphibious assault ships.
Powered by four Rolls-Royce MT7 gas turbine engines, derived from the AE1107C used in the V-22 Osprey, the craft delivers improved fuel efficiency, higher power output, and reduced maintenance compared to the older TF40B engines. It is also fitted with modern command, control, communications, and navigation systems, including a fly-by-wire control system that enhances maneuverability, safety, and reduces crew workload.
