The USS Bataan (LHD-5) is named after the Battle of Bataan, which took place during World War II in the Philippines. Commissioned on September 20, 1997, this mighty vessel plays a crucial role in enabling the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps team to transition seamlessly from sea to land battles. Let’s explore some key aspects of this impressive ship:
General Characteristics
- Displacement: The USS Bataan weighs in at approximately 40,500 long tons (41,150 metric tons) at full load.
- Length: It stretches an impressive 843 feet (257 meters).
- Beam: The ship’s beam measures 104 feet (31.8 meters).
- Draft: With a draft of 27 feet (8.1 meters), it can navigate various waters.
- Speed: The USS Bataan can reach speeds of up to 22 knots (about 41 km/h or 25 mph).
- Range: It boasts a range of 9,500 nautical miles (17,600 kilometers) at 18 knots (33 km/h or 21 mph).
- Well Deck: The well deck dimensions are 266 by 50 feet (81 by 15.2 meters) by 28 feet (8.5 meters) high.
- Complement: The ship accommodates 1,208 personnel.
- Armament: Armed with two RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile launchers, two RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missile launchers, two 20 mm Phalanx CIWS systems, and three 25 mm Mk 38 chain guns.
- Aircraft Carried: The USS Bataan can carry a mix of aircraft depending on the mission, including AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft, F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters, MV-22B Osprey tiltrotors, and more.
Versatility and Missions
- Amphibious Assault: The USS Bataan serves as a critical asset for amphibious assault operations. It can transport troops, equipment, and vehicles to shore, supporting ground forces during military campaigns.
- Advance Force: As part of an Amphibious Ready Group, the Bataan leads the way, ensuring a smooth transition from sea to land combat.
- Special Purpose Operations: From humanitarian assistance to evacuation missions, the ship’s versatility shines through.
- Historic Role: The USS Bataan played a significant role in the 2020 targeted killing of Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force, designated a terrorist organization by the United States.
Motto: Courage, Commitment, Honor
The crew aboard the USS Bataan lives by these values, exemplifying bravery, dedication, and integrity in their service to the nation.
Conclusion
The USS Bataan (LHD-5) stands as a testament to human ingenuity, engineering prowess, and unwavering commitment. Whether in times of conflict or peace, this ship continues to play a vital role in safeguarding our world.
For more information, you can visit the official USS Bataan website or explore their Facebook page.