ACU-4

• 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. • 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. • 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. • Desert Storm Deployment: ACU-4 LCACs participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, marking the first combat use of LCACs in history. • 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. • International Exercises: The unit regularly participates in multinational exercises, training alongside allied forces from countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Spain. • 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. • Innovations in Amphibious Warfare: ACU-4's operations have driven advancements in amphibious assault technology and tactics, influencing naval doctrine worldwide. • Distinguished Insignia: ACU-4's unit insignia features a stylized LCAC and symbolizes speed, flexibility, and the unit’s amphibious mission. • Community Outreach: ACU-4 personnel are active in the Hampton Roads community, participating in local events, educational outreach, and supporting veterans’ organizations.