USS America (LHA-6)

"Bello Vel Pace Paratus" -

USS America (LHA-6) is the lead ship of the America-class amphibious assault ships and was named for the United States of America. Designed with a focus on aviation capabilities, the ship lacks a well deck, a feature in traditional amphibious ships. Approximately 45% of its design is based on USS Makin Island (LHD-8). Constructed by Northrop Grumman Corporation's Ingalls Shipyard Division, construction began in December 2008, and the ship was commissioned on 11 October 2014 in San Francisco.

With displacement around 45,000 tons, it's as large as many aircraft carriers of other countries and is equipped to support F-35B and MV-22 aircraft. USS America's original homeport was San Diego, California, until it was changed to Sasebo, Japan, in 2019.

The ship has been actively involved in various missions, including joint exercises with regional allies and supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. In 2017, USS America aided the USS John S. McCain after a collision. By 2021, the ship participated in Exercise Talisman Saber 2021 with multiple allied forces.

The design of USS America has led to some controversy due to its lack of traditional amphibious capabilities, such as the ability to launch landing craft and amphibious assault vehicles, but it represents an increased focus on aviation capabilities.