ASSAULT SHIPS - ALBION CLASS LPD

ALBION CLASS (LPD) LANDING PLATFORM DOCKS

The contract (worth £449 million) to build the two LPDs (Landing Platform Docks) was awarded on 18 July 1996 and first steel was cut 17 November 1997.

There are two helicopter landing spots and the configuration includes a well dock and stern gate together with side ramp access. Substantial command and control facilities are included within a large combined Operations Room. The ships are being built to military damage control standards. Though conceived under the previous Conservative government this class fits in well with the current government's concept of expeditionary activities worldwide.

The UK is developing a useful amphibious capability with the new Assault ships and other new Landing Ships coming along.

Both vessels are capable of carrying 305 troops, with an overload of a further 405 for short periods. There is a vehicle deck capacity for up to 6 x main battle tanks or up to 30 x armoured all-terrain vehicles. In addition, there is a floodable well dock, with the capacity to take either four utility landing craft (each capable of carrying a main battle tank or shelter a hovercraft landing craft. There are 4 x smaller landing craft on davits, each capable of carrying 35 troops.