About this Unit
Assault Craft Unit FOUR (ACU-4) is a United States Navy amphibious unit established in 1963. Stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia, ACU-4 is the Navy’s primary operational command for Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) operations on the East Coast. The unit’s mission is to provide rapid ship-to-shore movement of troops, vehicles, and equipment in support of amphibious and expeditionary warfare. Over the decades, ACU-4 has supported numerous operations, exercises, and humanitarian missions, demonstrating its vital role in enhancing the Navy and Marine Corps’ operational flexibility and reach.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1983: Assault Craft Unit Four (ACU-4) was officially commissioned in 1983 at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia, to support the U.S. Navy's growing need for landing craft air cushion (LCAC) operations.
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LCAC Home: ACU-4 is the primary East Coast unit responsible for operating and maintaining the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC), a fast hovercraft used for amphibious assault missions.
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First of Its Kind: ACU-4 was the first unit in the world dedicated exclusively to hovercraft operations, making it a pioneer in modern amphibious warfare.
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Desert Storm Deployment: ACU-4 LCACs participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, marking the first combat use of LCACs in history.
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Humanitarian Missions: ACU-4 has supported numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake and in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.
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International Exercises: The unit regularly participates in multinational exercises, training alongside allied forces from countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Spain.
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High-Speed Capability: LCACs operated by ACU-4 can travel at speeds of over 40 knots (46 mph) and carry heavy payloads, enabling rapid deployment of Marines, vehicles, and equipment directly onto hostile or inaccessible beaches.
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Innovations in Amphibious Warfare: ACU-4's operations have driven advancements in amphibious assault technology and tactics, influencing naval doctrine worldwide.
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Distinguished Insignia: ACU-4's unit insignia features a stylized LCAC and symbolizes speed, flexibility, and the unit’s amphibious mission.
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Community Outreach: ACU-4 personnel are active in the Hampton Roads community, participating in local events, educational outreach, and supporting veterans’ organizations.
