The US is considering using hovercrafts to transport humanitarian aid to the citizens of Gaza after the floating dock, which cost 320 million dollars, was set up on the coast. Despite being repaired, the pier may take longer than its operation, prompting the need for an alternative.
Hovercraft are fast-moving amphibious crafts that can carry 60-75 tons and have been a topic of interest in the US defense industry for years due to their increasing cost. They can sail at a maximum speed of 40 knots and have a range of about 320 km, making them a viable option for aid delivery.
The American Central Command responsible for aid admitted that they currently do not have the means to transfer the full amount of aid from Cyprus to Gaza. However, they may choose to activate the 90 LCAC landings in their possession before the pier is repaired, which could take several weeks.
The decision to use hovercrafts raises questions about why they were not utilized from the beginning, especially given the challenges with the floating dock, such as trucks arriving partially empty. Technical or logistical issues may have influenced decision-making.
Despite these challenges, hovercrafts could provide a more efficient and reliable means of transport compared to the floating dock. The potential advantages of using these amphibious crafts warrant further consideration in future humanitarian missions.
In conclusion, while hovercrafts are not new technology in defense circles, their application in humanitarian aid delivery remains underutilized. The Biden administration should consider using these amphibious crafts as an alternative mode of transportation for relief supplies in crisis zones where traditional methods fail or are hindered by various factors.
Overall, utilizing hovercrafts as an alternative mode of transportation could be beneficial in improving delivery times and ensuring that relief supplies reach those who need them most urgently. As such, it is worth exploring this option further and incorporating it into future disaster response plans and strategies.
