Sep 9, 2020
Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today the successful fly-away of its first two next-generation air cushion vehicles, Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) Craft 100 and LCAC 101, on September 2. The two craft departed Textron Systems’ New Orleans, La., shipyard, where they liaised with U.S. Navy asset Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 091 – built by Textron in 2000 – for the last leg of their journey to the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City, Fla.
Prior to this milestone, Craft 100 and LCAC 101 completed Builder’s and Acceptance Trials, followed by formal acceptance by the U.S. Navy customer. Craft 100 is intended to serve as a test and training asset for the customer, while LCAC 101 is the first craft for operational use. Currently, twelve additional SSCs are in progress at Textron Systems’ shipyard.
“We are proud of the achievement that this fly-away represents as we strive to equip the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps with the unmatched capability set of the SSC,” said Senior Vice President Henry Finneral of Textron Systems. “The SSC will provide the versatility needed to transport critical personnel, weapon systems, equipment and cargo the last mile, even in the most challenging environments.”
By Type (Weapon Systems, Communication and Surveillance Systems, Sensors and Computation Systems, Countermeasure Systems and Payload, Unmanned Underwater Vehicles), By Mode of Operation (Manned Operations, Autonomous Operations, Remotely Operations), By Application (Combat, C4ISR, Others), By Region, Competition, 2019-2029F
Download free sample pagesThe SSC stands ready to replace the existing legacy fleet as a true upgrade for the LCAC forces at Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, ACU 5 and Naval Beach Unit 7. The craft can travel at a sustained 35 knots and has an increased payload capacity and a service life of 30 years. SSC’s similar configurations, dimensions and clearances to the legacy LCAC make it compatible with existing well deck-equipped amphibious ships, as well as Expeditionary Transfer Dock and Expeditionary Sea Bases. The SSC’s expanded capability set, versatility and built-in compatibility promise a smooth transition for users.
