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US Navy names next Freedom-class LCS

22nd April 2015 - 11:00 GMT | by Shephard News Team

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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.'