The RAN doesn’t have any landing craft except for a few LCVPs used for admin movements from the various auxiliaries. The Australian Army on the other hand has a large fleet of LCM8s and other water transport assets which are for more than just fleet amphibious use.Has the RAN determined whether they need to invest in new landing craft, or will they adapt what they already have?
The strange plan however for JP 2048 is the Army will replace many the LCM8s with a small combat boat - at the most a CB90 – for littoral operations. They will have a role in amphibious landings in escorting the new LCMs. The RAN will acquire around 12 LCMs to provide ship to shore movement from the LHDs and sealift ship. The plan is to acquire Navantia LCM1Es as long as they meet the basic spec. Which isn’t such a sure thing.
The RAN hasn’t but the Army has. A few Skimas (now called Griffons) were operated for some time in the 80s and a licence for their production is held by the shipbuilder in Cairns (whatever their name is today).Considering the varying climate/terrain across Aus, has the RAN ever tested/considered air-cushion units, not talking about the huge tank carrying versions, more small raiding types capable of being loaded/lifted aboard a Bay/Canberra?