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The Marine Corps is testing a concept using the Captive Air Amphibious Transporter’s air-filled track system. It aims to develop a new amphibious connector to transport Marine Corps vehicles from ship to shore.
Even though it’s still in its prototype phase, the UHAC performs better than anticipated. Throughout its multiple tests, it has proven itself to be capable at every level of testing.
A half-scale version of the UHAC was shown during RIMPAC in 2014 as part of the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise. It transported an Internally Transportable Vehicle from USS Rushmore to shore.
The Ultra Heavy-lift Amphibious Connector’s actual size is planned to be 84ft long and 34ft high.
The Marines expect the UHAC to carry up to three M1A1 Abrams Tanks or 190 tons of cargo. Its also expected to operate from ships with well decks capable of storing the UHAC.