The United States Army maintains a fleet of watercraft that often surprises many who are unaware of its existence. This lesser-known maritime capability plays a crucial role in the Army’s logistics and operational readiness, particularly in coastal areas and regions with significant water features. As of 2025, the Army’s boat fleet has undergone significant changes in recent years, reflecting shifting strategic priorities and modernization efforts.
The Army’s watercraft fleet is designed to support various missions, including the transportation of troops, vehicles, and supplies across water bodies. These vessels range from small patrol boats to large logistics support ships, each serving a specific purpose within the Army’s broader operational framework. The fleet’s composition and size have fluctuated over time, influenced by factors such as budget constraints, operational needs, and technological advancements.
| Year | Number of Vessels |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 134 |
| 2025 | 70 |
Current Fleet Size and Composition
As of 2025, the U.S. Army’s watercraft fleet consists of approximately 70 vessels. This number represents a significant reduction from previous years, as the Army has undergone a process of fleet optimization and divestment. In 2018, the fleet numbered 134 vessels, indicating that the Army has nearly halved its watercraft inventory over a seven-year period.
The current fleet includes a variety of vessel types, each designed for specific roles:
- Logistics Support Vessels (LSVs): The largest ships in the Army’s fleet, these 273-foot vessels can carry up to 2,000 tons of cargo, including tanks and other heavy vehicles.
- Landing Craft Utility (LCU): Smaller than LSVs but still capable of carrying significant loads, LCUs are designed for beach landings and operations in areas with limited port facilities.
- Maneuver Support Vessel (Light) or MSV(L): A new class of vessel set to replace older landing craft, enhancing the Army’s ability to conduct amphibious operations.
- Tugs and Small Watercraft: Various smaller vessels used for harbor operations, coastal patrols, and support roles.
The reduction in fleet size has been part of a broader strategy to modernize the Army’s watercraft capabilities while focusing on the most critical assets. However, this downsizing has not been without challenges, as it has impacted the Army’s overall maritime capacity and readiness.
Strategic Importance and Operational Challenges
Despite the reduction in numbers, the Army’s watercraft fleet remains a critical asset, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. These vessels play a vital role in supporting Army operations in areas where traditional port facilities may be limited or non-existent. The ability to move troops, equipment, and supplies via water is essential for maintaining operational flexibility and logistical support in diverse environments.
However, the current fleet faces several challenges:
- Low Mission Capable Rates: As of 2024, the fleet’s mission capable rate has fallen below 40%, significantly impacting operational readiness.
- Aging Vessels: Many of the remaining ships are nearing the end of their service lives, requiring increased maintenance and reducing availability.
- Maintenance Delays: Long repair times and outdated maintenance procedures have further reduced the fleet’s operational capacity.
- Increased Demand: Despite the reduced fleet size, the Army plans to increase watercraft missions, particularly in the Pacific theater.
These challenges have led to a situation where fewer than half of the vessels in the fleet are typically available at any given time, limiting the Army’s ability to meet mission requirements and conduct necessary training for watercraft personnel.
Modernization Efforts and Future Outlook
Recognizing the importance of its watercraft capabilities, the Army is actively working on modernizing its fleet. Key initiatives include:
- Introduction of the MSV(L): This new vessel class is set to enhance the Army’s amphibious capabilities, with plans to acquire up to 36 units.
- Watercraft Modernization Strategy: The Army is developing a revised strategy looking at watercraft needs from 2030 to 2040, expected to be completed in early 2025.
- Establishment of the Watercraft Enterprise Governance Board: Created in 2024 to provide oversight and coordination of worldwide watercraft activities.
These efforts aim to address the current challenges and ensure that the Army’s watercraft fleet remains a viable and effective asset in future operations. The focus is on developing a more modern, efficient, and mission-capable fleet that can meet the evolving needs of the Army, particularly in strategically important regions like the Indo-Pacific.
Impact on Army Operations and Readiness
The reduction in fleet size and the ongoing challenges with vessel availability have had a significant impact on the Army’s maritime capabilities. This has led to concerns about the service’s ability to support operations in water-rich environments, particularly in potential conflict scenarios in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key impacts include:
- Reduced Training Opportunities: Fewer available vessels mean limited chances for Army mariners to maintain and improve their skills.
- Logistical Constraints: The smaller fleet size limits the Army’s ability to move large quantities of equipment and supplies over water.
- Operational Flexibility: With fewer vessels, the Army’s options for amphibious and coastal operations are more limited.
- Increased Reliance on Other Services: The Army may need to rely more heavily on Navy and Marine Corps assets for certain maritime operations.
Despite these challenges, the Army continues to emphasize the importance of its watercraft capabilities. The service is working to balance the need for fiscal responsibility with maintaining essential maritime assets that support its broader operational goals.
Conclusion
The U.S. Army’s watercraft fleet, while smaller than in previous years, remains a crucial component of its operational capabilities. With approximately 70 vessels as of 2025, the fleet faces challenges in terms of readiness and availability. However, ongoing modernization efforts and strategic planning aim to ensure that the Army’s “navy” continues to play a vital role in supporting land operations and logistics in coastal and riverine environments.
As the global strategic landscape evolves, particularly with increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific region, the Army’s watercraft capabilities are likely to remain an important, if often overlooked, aspect of its overall force structure. The coming years will be critical in determining whether the Army can successfully modernize and optimize its fleet to meet future operational demands while addressing current readiness challenges.
FAQs About Army Boats
- Why does the Army have boats?
The Army uses boats for logistics, troop transport, and supporting operations in coastal and riverine environments. - What is the largest boat in the Army’s fleet?
The largest vessels are the Logistics Support Vessels (LSVs), measuring 273 feet in length. - How many boats does the Army currently have?
As of 2025, the Army has approximately 70 watercraft in its fleet. - Can Army boats carry tanks?
Yes, LSVs can carry up to 15 M1 Abrams tanks or other heavy vehicles. - Where are Army boats primarily used?
Army watercraft are used globally but are particularly important in the Indo-Pacific region.