 LCM-8 in March 1972
| |
| Class overview | |
|---|---|
| Name | LCM-8 |
| In service | 1959 to present |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | Mechanized landing craft |
| Displacement |
|
| Length | 73 ft 7⁄12 in (22.265 m) |
| Beam | 21 ft 0 in (6.4 m) |
| Draft |
|
| Propulsion | (original) 4, 2-twin-pak GMC 6-71 or Gray Marine 6-71 diesel paired to 2 hydrostatic transmissions Detroit 12V-71 diesel engines, twin screws |
| Speed |
|
| Capacity | M48 Patton, M60 tank or 200 troops |
| Complement | 4–6 |
| Armament | 2 × .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns |
The LCM-8 ("Mike Boat") is a river boat and mechanized landing craft used by the United States Navy and Army during the Vietnam War and subsequent operations. They are currently used by governments and private organizations throughout the world. The acronym stands for "Landing Craft Mechanized, Mark 8". (The "Mike Boat" term refers to the military phonetic alphabet, LCM being "Lima Charlie Mike".)
The vessel weighs 135,000 pounds (61,200 kg) and has a crew of four: a Boatswain's Mate petty officer, an Engineman petty officer, a non-rated fireman, and a seaman. US Army specifications call for a crew of six during 24-hour operations: two coxswains, two seamen and two enginemen. The LCM-8s are constructed from welded steel and powered by four 6-71 or two 12V71 diesel engines, twin propellers, and rudders. The ship can carry 60 short tons of cargo. It was designed by Marinette Marine Corp. It has a range of 190 miles at 9 knots with a full load.