Birdon announced it has partnered with C&C Marine and Repair to build two prototype landing craft for the U.S. Marine Corps at C&C's Belle Chasse, La. shipyard.
The U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL) has tapped Birdon to design and build two prototype vessels under the Marine Corps’ Force Design objectives aimed at modernizing its combat capabilities. Birdon designed the 150'x30'x4.9' ancillary surface craft - medium (ASC-M) as a "next-generation landing craft solutions to inform future capabilities, tactics, and procedures," the company said.
According to Birdon, the ASC-M is intended to be an affordable, production-friendly design that can be constrcuted in less than 12 months. The vessel is designed to carry up to 40 troops and 54 tons of cargo, with a focus on maneuverability, stability, and long-range ocean travel.
Birdon CEO Jamie Bruce said the design was selected for its superior capabilities and ability to be customized for the unique challenges of the Marine Corps' operating environments. “Our naval architects and marine engineers designed this craft from the ground up, integrating cutting-edge sonar and fuel systems to enhance operational success,” he said.
To support landings on uncharted beaches, Birdon partnered with a sonar specialist to develop a forward-looking system that helps operators detect obstacles and assess beach gradients. The vessel can beach and de-beach on significantly shallower gradients than current landing craft, expanding its amphibious capabilities, Birdon said.
The ASC-M also includes a fuel transfer system for vessel-to-vessel or vessel-to-shore operations, extending its operational range in remote or austere environments, Birdon added.
Construction on the first vessel is scheduled to begin this summer, with delivery scheduled one year later.
Tony Ardito, Birdon president, said the partnership with C&C Marine and Repair offers other strategic advantages, stating, “C&C’s capabilities and proximity to Birdon’s New Orleans operations make them the ideal partner for this project. Their ability to scale production gives us the flexibility to meet future demands.”
Birdon, which operates five U.S.-based facilities, is currently working on several large programs for American armed forces, including bridge erection boat production for the U.S. Army as well as service life extension of the 47’ motor life boats and construction of the waterways commerce cutters for the U.S. Coast Guard.
