Hi All,
I've read abit about a planned Littoral Support Ship for the RAN from about 99/00. I'd just like to ask people if if was feasible or if it lead to the current Canberra class ships?
I can't find info about the littoral support project you're talking about at present but I will try and do so. I do recall some discussion some time ago about the RAN acquiring up to 3 three Littoral Support Ships ( LSS ) each with a capacity to operate FA18s and AEW aircraft, but I think it was just a study put forward that never had any official sanction. I think I read it in a magazine but I'm certain it was no more than a concept, and wishful thinking at that. Certainly there was never going to be any way that either political party would have sanctioned what would have been a project to build three light carriers. Are we talking about the same thing? Hopefully someone can dig up the story.
Prior to deciding that the ADF's amphibious needs would be better met by building the two large LHDs and a follow on sealift capability, the RAN was looking at commonality in the design of its replacement amphibious and replenishment ships.
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3738/is_200211/ai_n9122371
My understanding is that the need to ensure the ability to operate a first wave of at least 6 helos per ship as well as being able to launch landing craft from a dock well led to the
Canberra class and the follow on sealift capability will supplement these two ships with one or more vessels of a type to be decided.
Cheers
