Austal delivers LCS 10 to US Navy
Austal has delivered the future USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) to the US Navy, the company announced on 26 December.
USS Gabrielle Giffords is the fifth Independence class variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) delivered to the navy since 2009.
The 127m LCS are being delivered under an 11 ship contract worth nearly $4 billion. The future LCS 12 and LCS 14 are preparing for sea-trials, LCS 16 and LCS 18 are in assembly and modules for LCS 20 and LCS 22 are underway at the company’s Module Manufacturing Facility.
LCS is designed for operational flexibility to accomplish critical warfighting missions including mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare with inherent capabilities that also support missions such as special operations and maritime interdiction.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Future frigate programme highlights broader RNZN replacement challenge
New Zealand’s evaluation of the Mogami and Arrowhead 140 frigate designs reflects a wider push for alliance interoperability, and points to a larger recapitalisation of the Royal New Zealand Navy fleet beyond the current programme.
-
Armada 2050: can Spain deliver its naval transformation?
Spain’s naval modernisation drive is moving from concept to contracts, with RfIs and RfPs expected before the end of the decade, despite second-batch frigate and submarine numbers remaining undecided.
-
Italy sets course for a decade of sustained naval investment
The country's long-term growth plan to overhaul its fleets well into the 2030s could open the door to an array of opportunities for suppliers.
-
FNSS looks to put uncrewed vehicles at the front of amphibious assaults
The new platform is designed to put reconnaissance, obstacle clearance and fire support ahead of the crewed force in a contested landing.