USS Makin Island (LHD-8)

Makin Island was laid down on 14 February 2004 by the Ingalls Shipbuilding, Pascagoula, Miss. As of February 2005, she is scheduled to be launched in January, 2006 and commissioned in September 2007.

The purpose/mission of LHD 8 is to embark, deploy, and land elements of a Marine landing force in an Amphibious Assault by helicopters, landing craft, and Amphibious vehicles. The secondary/convertible mission for LHD 8 is that of sea control and power projection.

Although LHD 8 is the eighth ship of the Wasp class, it will feature noteworthy technological advances. Changes from the previous LHD design include: gas turbine main propulsion engines, all electric auxiliaries, an advanced machinery control system, water mist fire protection systems, and the Navy’s most advanced command and control and combat systems equipment. The gas turbine propulsion plant, with all electric auxiliaries, is a program first for large deck amphibious assault ships and will provide significant savings in manpower and maintenance costs associated with traditional steam-powered amphibious ships.

See USS Makin Island for other ships of the same name.

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