Allied landing craft, essential to the success of amphibious operations during World War II, played a crucial role in the D-Day landings and other key invasions. These vessels were designed to transport troops, vehicles, and equipment from ships to shore, enabling large-scale assaults on fortified coastlines.
 
Key types of landing craft included:
 
- **Landing Craft, Assault (LCA):** Used primarily by British forces, these craft carried infantry directly to the beaches.

- **Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel (LCVP), also known as Higgins boats:** Widely used by American forces, they were capable of carrying 36 troops or small vehicles.

- **Landing Ship, Tank (LST):** Larger vessels that could transport tanks, heavy equipment, and large numbers of troops.
 
During the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, these landing craft were instrumental in delivering Allied forces to the beaches of Normandy. Despite heavy resistance, they enabled the Allies to establish a foothold in occupied France, marking the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. The landing craft's ability to land directly on beaches and unload troops and equipment quickly was vital for the success of the operation and subsequent amphibious assaults throughout the war.