Types Of Landing Craft Used On D Day
On the 6th of June 1944, the Allied forces launched the largest amphibious invasion in history. D-Day, as it is commonly known, was a pivotal moment in World War II and marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. The landing craft played a crucial role in the operation, allowing troops and supplies to be transported from ships to the beaches of Normandy. In this article, we will explore the different types of landing craft used on D Day.
Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel (LCVP)
The LCVP, also known as the Higgins boat, was the most widely used landing craft on D Day. It was designed by Andrew Higgins and was used by both the US and British forces. The LCVP could carry up to 36 fully equipped troops or a vehicle and 12 troops. It was known for its shallow draft, which allowed it to land on beaches and even riverbanks. The LCVP was also equipped with a ramp at the front, which could be lowered quickly to allow troops to disembark.
Landing Craft, Tank (LCT)
The LCT was designed to transport tanks and other heavy vehicles. It was used by both the US and British forces on D Day. The LCT could carry up to 10 tanks or 20 other vehicles. It had a ramp at the front, which could be lowered to allow the tanks to disembark. The LCT was not designed to land on beaches, but rather to dock with larger ships and transport the tanks to shore.
Landing Craft, Mechanized (LCM)
The LCM was a larger landing craft that was used to transport vehicles and equipment. It could carry up to 60 troops or a vehicle and 25 troops. The LCM had a ramp at the front, which could be lowered to allow vehicles to disembark. It was used by both the US and British forces on D Day.
Landing Ship, Tank (LST)
The LST was a larger ship that was used to transport tanks and other heavy vehicles. It could carry up to 20 tanks or 30 other vehicles. The LST had a ramp at the front, which could be lowered to allow the tanks to disembark. It was used by both the US and British forces on D Day and was able to land on beaches.
Landing Craft, Assault (LCA)
The LCA was a smaller landing craft that was used to transport troops and supplies. It could carry up to 10 troops or 1,500 pounds of supplies. The LCA was used by the British forces on D Day and was able to land on beaches. It had a ramp at the front, which could be lowered to allow troops to disembark.
Landing Craft, Support (LCS)
The LCS was a landing craft that was used to transport supplies and equipment. It could carry up to 300 troops or 75 tons of supplies. The LCS was used by the US forces on D Day and was able to land on beaches. It had a ramp at the front, which could be lowered to allow supplies to be unloaded.
Conclusion
The landing craft played a crucial role in the success of D Day. They allowed troops and supplies to be transported from ships to the beaches of Normandy, which was essential for the invasion to be successful. The different types of landing craft used on D Day each had their own unique capabilities and were used for different purposes. By using a combination of these landing craft, the Allied forces were able to achieve their objectives and gain a foothold in Europe.
