Final Independence Class Warship Hits the Water – SOFREP News Team
Austal USA, a prominent shipbuilding company, successfully launched the final Independence-class littoral combat ship (LCS), the USS Pierre (LCS 38), earlier this month.
Successful Launching
USS Pierre (LCS 38) is the 23rd LCS launched at Austal USA and the last of its kind in the Independence-class littoral combat ship series.
The Pierre’s launch was a complex operation that showcased Austal’s advanced shipbuilding techniques.
The vessel was carefully transferred “using the modern, safe, and efficient multi-step method” from a deck barge to a floating dry dock before being submerged for the first time.
This innovative process, honed over 13 years, according to the company’s press release, ensures the highest quality and efficiency in ship construction.
“Meeting this ship milestone in such a safe and timely manner demonstrates how well our Austal USA launch team,” stated Austal USA Vice President of New Construction, Dave Growden. “Our industry teams work methodically alongside our Navy partners to improve this innovative process with each launch evolution, guaranteeing the Navy a quality product delivered on time and on budget.”
USS Pierre is also the 19th Independence-variant, christened three months prior, and the second ship launched by Austal USA this year.
Austal USA, a prominent shipbuilding company, successfully launched the final Independence-class littoral combat ship (LCS), the USS Pierre (LCS 38), earlier this month.
Successful Launching
USS Pierre (LCS 38) is the 23rd LCS launched at Austal USA and the last of its kind in the Independence-class littoral combat ship series.
The Pierre’s launch was a complex operation that showcased Austal’s advanced shipbuilding techniques.
The vessel was carefully transferred “using the modern, safe, and efficient multi-step method” from a deck barge to a floating dry dock before being submerged for the first time.
This innovative process, honed over 13 years, according to the company’s press release, ensures the highest quality and efficiency in ship construction.
“Meeting this ship milestone in such a safe and timely manner demonstrates how well our Austal USA launch team,” stated Austal USA Vice President of New Construction, Dave Growden. “Our industry teams work methodically alongside our Navy partners to improve this innovative process with each launch evolution, guaranteeing the Navy a quality product delivered on time and on budget.”
USS Pierre is also the 19th Independence-variant, christened three months prior, and the second ship launched by Austal USA this year.
The ship is set to sail for the Pacific, where it will bolster forward presence, safeguard maritime security, assert sea control, and deter potential threats
The Last of Its Kind
USS Pierre’s launching ceremony on August 5 marked the culmination of years of engineering and construction for Austal USA and another significant milestone for the US Navy’s LCS program.
The LCS program is the Department of Defense’s ongoing effort to develop a class of fast, versatile warships capable of operating in near-shore and open-ocean environments.
There are two main types: the Freedom-class and the Independence-class, measuring between 388 to 419 feet (118 to 128 meters) long and capable of speeds up to 46 miles (74 kilometers) per hour.
These ships are equipped to handle various missions, such as anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, and surface warfare.
The LCS concept emphasizes flexibility, with interchangeable mission packages to adapt to different threats. It can operate up to 3,500 nautical miles (4,039 miles/6,500 kilometers) and carry a crew of about 75, along with helicopters, vehicles, and mission equipment.
Armed with machine guns, missiles, and decoy systems, LCS ships provide a flexible platform for various naval operations.
While it has faced challenges, the program has contributed to naval advancements.
The latest Freedom-class vessel, the USS Nantucket (LCS 27), was delivered to the US Navy last month.
Final Thoughts
As the Pierre prepares for sea trials later this year, the US Navy looks forward to incorporating this formidable warship into its operational plans.
The end of the Independence-class era signifies a pivotal moment in naval history, and the lessons learned from this program will undoubtedly shape the future of surface warfare.
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