Helicopter Carrier (LPH historically)

A dedicated amphibious assault ship carrying helicopters and an embarked landing force but no well deck, used to land Marines by air alone (vertical envelopment). The historical US hull symbol is LPH (landing platform, helicopter). The Iwo Jima class (LPH-2, lead ship commissioned 1961) was the first purpose-built class; the type was retired as the multi-role LHA and LHD ships, which add a well deck, took over the mission. Modern aviation-centric amphibs and several navies’ through-deck helicopter carriers descend from the LPH concept.