Billion-Dollar Beasts: Exploring the Most Expensive Military Vehicles to Ever Hit the Battlefield

4. LHA-6 USS America

Overview of the USS America (LHA-6) Joined the Service: 2012 Producer: Huntington Ingalls Price: *$3.4 billion Class Specifications Ship Class: LHA (Amphibious Assault Ship) Slogan: Built under the motto "Bello vel pace Paratus" (Prepared for war or peace). Delivery: First delivered to the Navy in 2014. Significance: The USS America is the fourth ship in U.S. history to carry the nation's name. Contract Details The USS America was constructed under a $10.1 billion contract with Huntington Ingalls.

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USS America (LHA-6) Features and Comparisons Enhanced Capabilities: The USS America includes extra stowage space and aviation maintenance facilities, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft. Design Adaptations: Specifically modified to withstand the intense heat generated during F-35B vertical takeoffs. Similarities and Differences Comparison with USS Wasp: The USS America shares design elements with the USS Wasp, particularly in terms of aviation support. USS Makin Island Comparison: The USS Makin Island served as a model for the LHA-6, but notable differences exist: Well Deck: The USS America lacks a well deck, which is typically used for launching and recovering landing craft. Medical Facilities: The USS America has smaller medical areas to prioritize additional aviation facilities.