LCS 8 completes acceptance trial

The future USS Montgomery (LCS 8) Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) has successfully completed acceptance trials following several underway and in-port demonstrations for the US Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV), the navy announced on 13 May.

During the four-day trial the ship successfully performed surface and air self-defence detect-to-engage exercises; a four-hour full power run; and launch and recovery operations of its 11-metre rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB). The ship's manoeuvrability was also demonstrated, with the vessel accomplishing speeds of over 40 knots and performing tight turns.

The successful trial clears the way for delivery of the ship to the navy in the coming weeks. 

Capt Tom Anderson, LCS program manager, said: ‘Ship after ship, we continue to see improved performance at lower cost. Montgomery's strong performance during acceptance trials is a testament to the navy/industry team that has laboured to incorporate lessons learned and deliver this exceptional and affordable ship.’

Following delivery and commissioning Montgomery will be home-ported in San Diego with sister ships USS Jackson (LCS 6), USS Milwaukee (LCS 5), USS Coronado (LCS 4), USS Fort Worth (LCS 3), USS Independence (LCS 2) and USS Freedom (LCS 1).