What unique characteristic is found in the LHD compared to the LHA?

The unique characteristic of the LHD (Landing Helicopter Dock) compared to the LHA (Landing Helicopter Assault) is the enhanced well deck that accommodates three LCACs (Landing Craft Air Cushion). This feature enables the LHD to support more versatile amphibious operations, allowing for the transportation and deployment of equipment and troops via air-cushion vehicles, which can operate in a variety of environmental conditions.

This ability to support LCACs plays a crucial role during amphibious assaults, offering enhanced operational flexibility and speed in offloading vehicles and personnel from the ship to shore. The design focuses on improving the overall effectiveness of landing operations by expanding the range of options available for beach assaults. In contrast, while both vessels have strong capabilities, the LHA does not accommodate the same number of LCACs, making the LHD's well deck a distinctive and advantageous feature.