The Navy christened its newest vessel, the amphibious assault ship America, during an Oct. 20 ceremony in Pascagoula, Miss., where it was built. America is the first of its class, and will replace the aging Tarawa-class amphibious assault ships. With a larger flight deck than its predecessor, Tarawa will be capable of carrying MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor and Joint Strike Fighter aircraft, as well as support forces. Scheduled to join the fleet next year, Tarawa will be homeported at San Diego Naval Station, Calif.
