An Amphibious Assault Ship's role is to support and execute amphibious operations by transporting and deploying ground forces, vehicles, aircraft, and equipment directly onto hostile shores. These ships serve as floating bases, enabling the projection of power from sea to land. They have well decks to launch landing craft and hovercraft, flight decks for helicopters and vertical takeoff aircraft, and facilities to accommodate and support troops. By providing a platform for launching assaults, conducting air operations, and supporting ground forces, amphibious assault ships play a crucial role in marine and expeditionary warfare.