Landing helicopter assault

Landing helicopter assault (LHA) is the United States Navy's hull classification symbol for the general-purpose helicopter-carrying amphibious assault ships of the Tarawa and America classes.

They normally travel in task forces called "amphibious ready groups".

These vessels are built with a full flight deck similar in appearance to an aircraft carrier to operate utility and attack helicopters.

[2] LHAs that contain a well deck are able to support the use of landing craft, air cushions (LCACs) and other watercraft.

In 2004, LHAs were used to transport marines and their equipment to Iraq and Afghanistan for combat operations.