USS Bonhomme Richard
Wasp class assault carriers are most impressive, and the USS Bonhomme Richard LHD-6, commissioned last August, is the newest of the lot. Approximately the size of a WWII Essex class carrier, she carries almost 2,000 marines in addition to a US Navy crew of 1,500. Externally Wasp class ships differ from the predecessor Tarawa class in lacking 5" guns, and accordingly the flight deck is somewhat larger. The guns were removed because Wasp class utilize LCACs ("Landing Craft Air Cushion"), which enable them to land marines and armour from beyond the horizon. To disembark the LCAC, the stern gate folds down and the well deck is flooded. These ships are most interesting below decks, and I was fortunate in being to photograph Bonhomme Richard during the March '99 Urban Warrior exercises held on San Francisco Bay. Accordingly, she was crammed with amphibious armoured vehicles of all types and her flight deck was crowded with helicopters. What a treat! There is no model of a Wasp class carrier currently available, but I am told that a new producer is about to release a 1/700 scale resin kit shortly. This should make for a most interesting - and big - modeling project, with many detailing possibilities (Harriers, helicopters, disembarking a LCAC etc). Stay tuned Click thumbnail to view full size picture
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