Marines conduct assault amphibious vehicle operations

Assault amphibious vehicle operations were successfully conducted in the slipway at the Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Fla., May 15. A total of nine AAVs splashed from Bobo Class Ship USNS PFC Dewayne T. Williams, marking the first time since 1999 that tracks have splashed from a Maritime Prepositioning Force ship. The objective of the AAV operation was to demonstrate and evaluate the operational capability to launch AAVs from an MPF ship. The objective was fully achieved. Another AAV operation on a much larger scale is planned during the month of August.

NOTE:  I'm really getting tired of the "Pentagon" speak.  The Marine Corps has been splashing AAVs off MPF ships forever now.  The idea that this is the first time its been done since 1999 is also a lie.  Below is a pic from Bold Alligator 2012 where it was done.  I don't know who is pushing this bullshit but cut it out!  You're re-inventing the wheel!  We don't need the grandstanding!  On another note.  That AAV coming out the water almost looks brand new.  Wonder whats going on with that?  Are they working the boys at Albany hard to rebuild these things and if so what does that tell us....

MSC Maritime Prepositioning Force ship USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon lowered its gunmetal gray stern ramp into the water Feb. 7, allowing 12 Amphibious Assault Vehicles, or AAVs, to enter the waters just off Camp Lejune. The AAVs, tracked vehicles that can carry three crew and 21 combat ready troops, splashed into shallow water in preparation for a massive D-Day style amphibious assault on the beach.