New high-tech naval ships have completed trials and after final inspection are ready for delivery to California for use by the U.S. Navy. The Littoral Combat Ships currently consist of the USS Freedom-class and the USS Independence-class.
USS Independence
The USS Independence is the second class of General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) to complete trials. The U.S. Navy announced earlier today that the USS Independence has completed trials in the Gulf of Mexico, off the shore of Alabama and will be deployed to California sooner than expected. The LCS are designed to operate close to shore (littoral zones). They are smaller, more agile vessels that can operate with stealth at high speeds and address anti-access and asymmetric threats in the littorals. They are another example of the US military addressing the demands of 21st century warfare.
The Independence was built by Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama under the auspices of the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia. The 418 foot ship completed rigorous testing in the Gulf of Mexico on October 18, 2009. The trials included more than 50 demonstrations. It was able to sustain speeds up to 44 knots during a four-hour full-power run. It can top speeds in excess of 45 knots (over 50 miles per hour).
The ship exceeded expectations and further testing has been deferred to expedite it’s deployment.
“Independence exceeded our expectations in terms of maneuverability, stability, handling and speed,” said Jeff Geiger, president of the GD-owned Bath Iron Works, in the company’s announcement.
These ships are really innovative. The diesel powered aluminum ships are designed with modules that can be switched out in as little as 24-hours, in order to accommodate helicopters, anti-submarine technological and a host of other defense necessities. It is light and fast. They use steerable waterjets so that they are highly maneuverable. They also draw little water, allowing them to operate in shallow water.
The father of the U.S. Navy would be proud. Captain John Paul Jones said in 1778:
`I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm’s way.‘
You can see more USS Independence pictures here.
Littoral Combat Ships - Photos
Littoral Combat Ship - Video
October 23rd, 2009 at 9:21 am
Beth,
A couple of points on LCS. First, the initial build of the class (LCS-1 USS FREEDOM) is a Lockheed Martin build. So, while this is the second LCS, it is the first GD LCS. Second, the ship is not a straight diesel ship. It is CODOG with two diesel and two gas turbines. The diesels are used at lower speeds and the gas turbines kick in to get to your 45 knot number.
October 23rd, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Thanks for the clarification Vaflya