LANDING CRAFT INFANTRY

This hulk is situated on the River Deben, just outside of Melton (Suffolk) and is estimated to measure 11.5 m in length and 3 m in width. The structure is rectangular in shape with squared edges and straight sides. One end suggests the presence of a bulkhead and a hatch or doorway, while the other end is missing. Parts of possible rudder components are located close to the bulkhead, suggesting that this is the stern. Internal frames can be seen throughout the remaining structure; estimated measurements reveal a spacing of approximately 0.42 m. The hull is constructed of wood in a double diagonal layout, with metal plating over the top on the exterior of the hull. The hulk shows extensive deterioration and many of its fixtures and fittings have been stripped. A large proportion of the vessel is now missing.

The shape, size and construction are all indicative of a British Landing Craft Assault (LCA) from the Second World War (WW2). The basic structure of this type of landing craft was a double diagonal wooden hull, commonly built using mahogany (Lavery 2009:20), although other timber species were used to keep up with the number of vessels required. Steel armour plating was then added as an outer skin. The overall length of an LCA was 12.7 m (41.6 ft) with a beam of 3 m (10 ft) (Royal Marines Museum). The main feature of LCA's was the bow ramp, used for amphibious landings such as on D-Day. This part of the vessel appears to be missing and may explain why the hulk has no bulkhead or bow features. The main use of the vessel was for troop transport; this featureless area took up most of the length of the hull. The internal frame spacing of LCA's was 0.45 m (Lavery 2009:21). At the after end of the troop compartment was a watertight bulkhead that separated the engine room (Lavery 2009:19). This bulkhead had a hatch for access by the stoker, which may be what is visible on the remaining hulk. After the engine room there was no further armour plating, which serves to explain the complete loss of the stern. It is difficult to positively identify this vessel as, athough the hulk displays several characteristics of an LCA, with the overall lack of structure it is possible that the remains may be of a barge or similar vessel.