LCAC (United Kingdom)

The Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) in British service is a small amphibious hovercraft able to transverse both land and water. Like all amphibious landing craft in the Royal Navy, they are operated by the Royal Marines to transport troops or equipment from ship to shore during an amphibious landing.

2000TDX
The Griffon 2000TDX is the first LCAC(L) to enter service with the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, the added (L) indicates that its a LCAC Light. The 2000TDX is based on the basic 2000TD model with modifications for military use. Due to the nature of the LCAC (being a hovercraft), they displace very little water despite their large size, they also produce next to no wake at high speed - this makes the LCAC more stealthy than traditional landing craft and with their powerful engines, much faster.

Four LCACs are in service as of 2012, with pennant numbers C21, C22, C23 and C24.

Specifications
The Landing Craft Air Cushion 2000TDX has the following specifications:
 * Displacement (full): 6,800 kg (6.8 tonnes)
 * Length: 12.7 m
 * Width : 6.1 m
 * Speed (full): 45 kn (water) 30 kn (land)
 * Endurance: In excess of 450 nmi or 12 hours
 * Troops: 15 Royal Marines (3 crew, 12 fully equipped troops)