US Navy names next Freedom-class LCS
The US Navy has named the next Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) USS St. Louis, it announced on 17 April.
The USS St. Louis, designated LCS 19, will be built led by a Lockheed Martin-led industry team. It will have a modular design to incorporate mission packages that can be changed out as per combat needs.
These mission packages are supported by detachments that deploy manned and unmanned vehicles, and sensors in support of mine, undersea and surface warfare missions. The LCS is designed for missions close to the shore, such as mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare.
The St. Louis will have a length of 388ft, waterline beam length of 58ft and a maximum speed of over 40 knots.
Ray Mabus, secretary of the navy, said: 'The name St. Louis holds a strong naval legacy.
'In this era when our country is faced with similar challenges as our forefathers, it’s important that all who encounter this ship are reminded of the history of our navy’s bravery and sense of duty.'
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class]()
US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
-
![Australia’s A$12 billion Perth shipyard upgrade offers positive sign for AUKUS]()
Australia’s A$12 billion Perth shipyard upgrade offers positive sign for AUKUS
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
-
![DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology]()
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
![Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract]()
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
