The Boxer‑class amphibious assault ship is considered more valuable for ground operations than the Tripoli‑class ship because of its design. Both vessels are built for blue‑water and littoral assaults, but the Tripoli class, derived from a U.S. design, lacks a well deck for landing troops, equipment, vehicles, and hovercraft, limiting it to helicopter operations and creating a significant vulnerability. In contrast, the Boxer class, part of the VST‑type series, features a floodable well deck that can carry three to four hovercraft or up to 40 troops with their gear for beach landings. This class forms the backbone of U.S. amphibious and littoral warfare, and a Boxer ship is typically positioned at the front line when ground operations are underway.