October 26, 2005: India is buying a used amphibious ship from the United States. The 16,000-ton LPD (Amphibious Transport Dock), ?USS Trenton? is being made available for some $42 million. The ship is 34 years old, and will require some refurbishment to meet Indian needs. The deal may fall apart if Indian critics, who want a ship of more recent design and construction, have their way. However, the price quoted is attractive, and any refurbishment can be done in India. These Austin class ships have a crew of 420, can carry six helicopters, plus smaller amphibious boats. Some 900 troops can be carried, along with their vehicles and weapons. The ship also carries, for its own protection, two 20mm Phalanx anti-missile systems, four three inch guns (in two twin mounts in older ships, replaced by two 25mm auto-cannon) and eight .50 caliber machine-guns. The ship moves at 37 kilometers an hour. The USS Trenton is still in service with the U.S. Navy.
