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ConflictUS Navy awards TOTE $2.2 bln contract to manage Medium Landing Ships program
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The U.S. Navy awarded a $2.2 billion Vessel Construction Management (VCM) contract to TOTE Services LLC for the construction of up to eight Medium Landing Ships (LSMs) under the Marine Corps' new program aimed at potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific. The VCM approach, mandated by the FY2026 NDAA, borrows commercial shipbuilding practices to accelerate construction. TOTE will manage subcontracts with Bollinger Shipyards (one LSM) and Fincantieri Marinette Marine (four LSMs), with a strategy for the remaining three vessels to be determined. Construction begins later this year, with the first LSM delivery expected in fall 2029. The LSMs, based on Damen Naval's LST-100 design already used by Nigeria and Australia, are part of President Trump's 'Golden Fleet' initiative. The ships are approximately 100 meters long, can beach themselves, carry over 800 tons of cargo, and have a range of 3,400 nautical miles.
Source report
The U.S. Navy has awarded a $2.2 billion Vessel Construction Management (VCM) contract to TOTE Services LLC, based in Jacksonville, Florida, to oversee the construction of the service's new Medium Landing Ships (LSMs).
The Marine Corps commissioned the LSMs with a focus on potential conflicts with China in the Indo-Pacific region. Measuring approximately 100 meters, these smaller, more agile vessels are designed for island-hopping operations, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies.
Congressional Directive and VCM Approach
Under the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, Congress directed the Navy to select a VCM outside the military to manage the contract for procuring no more than eight additional LSMs. The VCM approach aims to accelerate construction of simplified ship designs by adopting commercial shipbuilding practices.
Construction and Delivery Timeline
TOTE Services will manage subcontracts with:
- Bollinger Shipyards – construction of one LSM
- Fincantieri Marinette Marine – construction of four LSMs
The VCM will determine the award strategy for the remaining three vessels, according to a Navy press release issued Monday. Construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with the first LSM delivery expected in fall 2029.
Part of the "Golden Fleet" Initiative
The LSMs are part of President Donald Trump's "Golden Fleet" initiative, which envisions maintaining the Navy's legacy ships while adding new manned and unmanned vessels.
Design and Capabilities
In December, the Navy selected Dutch shipbuilder Damen Naval to design the Landing Ship Transport 100 (LST-100) for the initial tranche of LSMs. Key specifications include:
- Range: 3,400 nautical miles
- Cargo capacity: Over 800 tons
- Capability: Can beach itself for direct delivery
The Nigerian Navy already operates the LST-100, and the Australian Navy selected Damen's design in 2024.
Official Statement
"We're taking a proven design and leveraging congressional authorities to move with urgency and approach shipbuilding differently," said Christopher Miller, the Navy's portfolio acquisition executive for maritime, in a Monday press release.
Source
Military TimesWestern
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U.S. Navy Awards $2.2B Contract for Medium Landing Ships Program