Landing Together by unknow

Author:unknow
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781442259621
Publisher: Center for Strategic & International Studies

The first of the new LST-II Cheon Wang Bong–class ships was commissioned at the end of 2014. These vessels represent a measurable upgrade from LST-I in terms of overall lift and aviation capability with a large, two spot helicopter deck. The LST-II landing ships do not have bow ramps; instead, they carry two medium landing craft on the foredeck and use a stern gate for loading and offloading. These LSTs (more accurately LPDs, according to the categories of amphibious vessels in Appendix 1) are 416 feet long and 7,140 tons fully loaded.

The ROKN has a limited number of connectors available for its amphibious force. It has purchased several indigenously produced LCACs to pair with the Dokdo-class LHDs. South Korea does not have a medium- or heavy-lift helicopter for its amphibious force. At present, the ROKN operates Blackhawk derivatives. The ROK Marine Corps uses the U.S.-made AAV-7 amphibious assault vehicle for ship-to-shore movement and ground maneuver.

Future Developments

Over the past decade, the ROKN has embarked on a series of modernization projects that have rapidly expanded the fleet, including the amphibious component.62 This effort is expected to continue with the acquisition of at least one more Dokdo-class ships (which is funded as of 2016).63 In addition, the ROKN plans to acquire three more Cheon Wang Bong–class LSDs by 2018.

There are possible modifications to future Dokdo-class LHDs that remain unconfirmed. The most persistent and intriguing is that follow-on LHDs will be equipped with a ski-jump ramp on the bow. This would enable Short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) flight operations with an aircraft such as the F-35B. Another report is that the ROKN will acquire a newly designed amphibious assault ship before 2019 based on the Spanish Juan Carlos design, a vessel with a 27,500-ton full displacement.64 If true, these rumors point to a desire by the ROKN to improve, dramatically, its capability for naval aviation through the addition of fixed wing flight operations.

The ROK Marine Corps plans to establish an aviation component by 2017. Additionally, the ground component of the Corps is expected to add another brigade headquarters and small detachment. The Ninth Brigade stationed on Jeju Island off the Eastern coast of South Korea is in the process of standing up and should eventually total 500 Marines.65

The ROK Marine Corps has indicated interest in acquiring a sea-based utility helicopter and light attack helicopter. It is unclear at present whether the ROK would acquire those capabilities through domestic production or international purchase. The ROK has also discussed acquiring the V-22 Osprey, though whether for the Marine Corps or Special Forces is not clear.66

Implications for the United States

As seen in the 2016 iteration of the Ssang Yong exercise, amphibious operations remain a large part of combined planning between the United States and South Korea. The United States brought elements of two ARGs—the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer—with the 31st and 13th MEUs, five MPF ships, and additional assets and personnel to deploy as the Third MEB, in the largest U.S. amphibious exercise in many years.

South Korea’s amphibious forces are highly trained and well equipped.

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