Amphibious Combat Vehicle Ramp Interface Modular Buoyant Kit (MBK) for Joint High Speed Vessel (JHSV) Stern Ramp

The Marine Corps needs a high-speed shallow-draft connector, such as the T-EPF (formerly designated JHSV), that can splash-off launch and recover (L&R) AAVs/ACVs within three miles from shore through Sea State 3; the current T-EPF is limited to L&R in Sea State 1 due to structural limitations of the stern ramp. In Phase I, we developed a modular buoyant kit (MBK) concept that uses strategically-placed, Berry Amendment compliant drop-stitch buoyant components and hinged and articulated connections to support the weight of the amphibious vehicle while isolating the ramp and connecting structure from sea state-induced dynamic loads during L&R operations. Our proposed Phase II effort advances the MBK technology by improving design tool fidelity, reducing MBK component pricing, and identifying changing MBK requirements due to vehicle modifications. We will also explore related applications for MBK technology of direct benefit to Navy/Marine Corps amphibious operations, including an extended MBK for use as a floating causeway—for direct ship-to-shore vehicle offload in austere ports, and as a means to traverse rivers and marshy areas—and for improving waterborne performance of existing amphibious vehicles by increasing reserve buoyancy and reducing resistance.