LCU (Landing Craft Utility)

A Landing Craft Utility (LCU) is a versatile, boat-sized vessel used by military forces to transport troops, vehicles, and equipment from ships to shore, especially during amphibious assaults. Designed to operate close to beaches and rough waters, LCUs can carry heavy loads directly onto land, facilitating rapid deployment in combat or humanitarian missions. They are typically equipped with ramps for easy loading and unloading and are valued for their durability, maneuverability, and ability to support large-scale landings in challenging environments.