Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) Capability Assessment: Planned and Alternative Structures

Abstract : This study examines various possible changes to the planned composition of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) (MPF[F]). At the time of this analysis, the planned 14-ship MPF(F) squadron will consist of the following: (1) two modified LHA (replacement) (LHA[R]) large-deck amphibious assault ships equipped with Marine Expeditionary Brigade command and control facilities; (2) one modified LHD large-deck amphibious ship; (3) three Lewis and Clark dry cargo/ammunition ships (T-AKEs); (4) three modified large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) sealift ships; (5) three mobile landing platform (MLP) ships, each capable of operating six landing craft, air cushioned (LCAC) surface connectors; and (6) two legacy "dense-pack" MPF ships taken from existing squadrons. LHA(R)s and LHDs have large flight decks and hangar decks for embarking and operating helicopters and tilt-rotor aircraft. LHA(R)s and LHDs also provide medical capabilities. With six operating rooms, 17 intensive care unit beds, and 60 overflow beds, LHDs have the greatest medical capability of any amphibious platform in operation. Most of the possible variations from the program of record MPF(F) entail removing large-deck ships: the LHA(R)s and the LHD. Additionally, we examined cases where a fourth MLP is added (with six additional LCACs) to assess a situation where only surface connectors can be used. Most of our analysis focuses on major combat operations (MCOs), but we did consider the possibility of the MPF(F) supporting counterinsurgency (COIN) and special operations. This analysis does not examine the ability of the MPF(F) to support joint operations; rather, it concentrates on the ability of a modified MPF(F) to sustain United States Marine Corps (USMC) Marine Expeditionary Brigades (MEBs).