Introduction
The United States Navy operates the world’s largest fleet of nuclear‑powered vessels, but not every ship in the fleet uses an atomic reactor. A common misconception is that the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA‑6) is nuclear‑powered like the newer Gerald R. Ford‑class carriers. In reality, America relies on conventional gas turbine propulsion.
Propulsion System
USS America is equipped with two General Electric LM2500+ marine gas turbines. These engines are paired with a hybrid mechanical‑electric drive that includes two 5,000‑horsepower auxiliary propulsion motors. Together they provide the power needed for long‑range operations without refueling.
- Engines: 2 × GE LM2500+ gas turbines
- Auxiliary motors: 2 × 5,000 hp electric motors
- Total shaft horsepower: 70,580 hp (35,290 hp per turbine)
- Maximum speed: 22 knots (≈25 mph)
- Range: >13,000 nautical miles at cruising speed
Performance & Capabilities
Despite lacking nuclear power, America’s propulsion system supports a wide range of missions. The ship displaces about 45,000 tons, measures 844 feet in length, and can host a sizable air wing and embarked troops.
- Crew: 1,204 personnel
- Embarked troops: 1,871
- Aircraft capacity:
- 12 MV‑22B Osprey tilt‑rotors
- 6 F‑35B Lightning II STOVL fighters
- 4 AH‑1Z Viper attack helicopters
- 4 CH‑35K King Stallion transport helicopters
- 3 UH‑1Y Venom utility helicopters
Comparison with Nuclear‑Powered Vessels
Nuclear propulsion offers virtually unlimited endurance and high power density, making it ideal for aircraft carriers and submarines. However, the cost of nuclear reactors, specialized maintenance, and refueling infrastructure makes them less practical for amphibious ships, which benefit from flexibility, lower acquisition costs, and shorter mission profiles.
Conclusion
The USS America (LHA‑6) is not nuclear‑powered. Its dual GE LM2500+ gas turbines and auxiliary electric motors deliver the speed, range, and power needed for amphibious assault operations while avoiding the complexities of nuclear propulsion. This configuration underscores the Navy’s strategic choice to match propulsion technology to each ship class’s mission requirements.