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
-
![UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction]()
UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction
The expansion of the Virginia-class submarine construction to UK shores could accelerate the project as US shipbuilders continue to fall short of delivery goals.
-
![US Navy seeks new sensors for the CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter]()
US Navy seeks new sensors for the CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter
The US Navy intends to publish a draft request for proposals in Q2 2026 and conduct an open competition for the supply of new electro-optical and infrared capabilities for the CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter.
-
![NATO naval exercises map out future USV requirements but raise questions on acquisition]()
NATO naval exercises map out future USV requirements but raise questions on acquisition
Uncrewed surface vessels have shifted from a desirable capability to a critical one for navies. But should these systems be bought outright, rented as a service or rapidly built using commercial off-the-shelf components?
