Eidechse is a name for a class of American-made West German amphibious assault ships that were produced during World War II. The length of a single ship of this class - at the time of launching - was 62.06 meters, and a width of 10.52 meters, at the maximum draft - 2.59 meters. The maximum speed was up to 13 knots. The unit was able to transport 5 medium tanks, 3 heavy or 6 LVT vehicles.
The Eidechse-class units are, in essence, modernized American LSM and LSM (R) landing craft, which from 1946 were in the reserve of the US Navy. In 1958, they were handed over to the West German Bundesmarine, where they created the 2nd Landing Craft Squadron (German, 2nd Landungsgeschwader). It is worth adding that the US Navy handed over six such units, five of which did not take part in the military operations at all, and the technical condition of all units was good or very good. The units, after entering service to the Bundesmarine, were modernized. The changes mainly concerned such ship systems as, for example, the electrical installation, but also related to changes in the armament of units. They were also adapted primarily to the transport of soldiers. Over time, the ability to operate on-board helicopters was also added. One of the ships was also converted into a command ship. The Eidechse-class units were withdrawn from the line in 1969-1973.