Navy Unveils LSM-1 McClung, First Ship in New McClung-Class Medium Landing Ships for Marine Corps

The U.S. Navy announced the LSM-1 McClung, the first ship of the McClung-class Medium Landing Ships, designed for affordable amphibious lift capabilities for the Marine Corps. Revealed by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro on January 16, 2025, the ship honors Major Megan McClung, the first female Marine officer killed in the Iraq war.

The class will consist of 18 to 35 vessels to support the Force Design transformation. The program emerged from a reassessment of operational needs in the Indo-Pacific and aims to enhance mobility for Marine Littoral Regiments while being cost-effective compared to traditional ships.

In December 2025, the Navy selected Damen's LST-100 design, previously used by the Nigerian Navy, as the basis for the McClung class, with construction managed by Bollinger Shipyards. The first ship is expected to be delivered by February 2029, with the program emphasizing affordability and operational readiness.