Australia’s Canberra-class LHDs achieve full operational capability

The Royal Australian Navy’s two Canberra-class landing helicopter docks (LHDs) and their deployed landing craft have achieved final operational capability, the service said in a statement dated November 13.

HMAS Canberra and HMAS Adelaide and their 12 landing craft and amphibious supporting organisations are now cleared to deliver and deploy the full scope of amphibious operations as well as other missions incuding humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

At 230 metres long and with a speed of more than 20 knots, the 27,500-tonne LHDs each have deck space for six helicopters and up to 110 vehicles including main battle tanks.