Birdon Launches Development of ASC-M Prototypes for U.S. Marine Corps

[By: Birdon]

The U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL) has tapped into the expertise of maritime engineering firm Birdon to create two prototype vessels aimed at showcasing innovative concepts aligned with the Marine Corps’ modernization goals. The resulting Birdon Ancillary Surface Craft (ASC) represents a meaningful leap in developing next-gen landing craft that will shape future operational strategies and methodologies.

In this partnership, MCWL and Birdon worked hand-in-hand to harmonize various factors such as operational needs, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability. Their focus was on pioneering design techniques that enhance production automation, which ultimately reduces the time required to construct each vessel.This teamwork enabled them to transition from initial ideas to a cost-efficient design ready for manufacturing in under a year. The integration of automated features paves the way for scaling production swiftly in response to future requirements.

BirdonS CEO Jamie Bruce highlighted that their ASC design stood out due to its remarkable capabilities tailored specifically for the unique challenges faced by U.S. Marines. “Our team of naval architects and marine engineers crafted this vessel from scratch, incorporating state-of-the-art sonar technology and advanced fuel systems aimed at boosting operational effectiveness,” he noted.

The ASC is engineered to transport up to 40 troops along with 54 tons of cargo while boasting remarkable maneuverability, stability, and long-distance ocean travel capabilities. to facilitate safe landings on unfamiliar shores, Birdon collaborated with sonar specialists who developed an advanced forward-looking sonar system enabling operators to identify obstacles and evaluate beach slopes well before arrival.This innovation allows for beaching operations on gradients much shallower than what current landing crafts can manage—considerably enhancing amphibious operation safety.

An additional highlight of Birdon’s ASC is its refined fuel delivery system designed for efficient transfers between vessels or from ship-to-shore—crucial for extending operational range in tough conditions.

Birdon has teamed up with C&C Marine and Repair based in Belle chasse, LA, where they will construct both prototype vessels together. Work on the first craft is slated to kick off in summer 2025 with completion expected by summer 2026—a testament to Birdon’s dedication towards rapidly equipping military personnel while fostering collaboration within defense manufacturing sectors.

Tony Ardito, President of Birdon remarked on their strategic alliance saying: “C&C’s capabilities combined with their location near our New Orleans operations make them an ideal collaborator for this initiative; their scalable production capacity gives us room to adapt as demands evolve.”

This partnership not only reinforces Birdon’s role as a reliable ally within the U.S Department of Defense but also highlights its commitment toward bolstering local shipbuilding industries through five facilities across America—continuously delivering cutting-edge maritime solutions that strengthen national defense efforts.