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US Navy orders LCS 31

18th January 2019 - 11:30 GMT | by Shephard News Team

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The Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) team has received a contract to build the 16th Freedom-class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS 31) for the US Navy, Lockheed Martin announced on 15 January.

The LCS gives the navy the ability to counter small boats, submarines and conduct mine countermeasure operations close to the shore. The LCS class consists of two variants, the Freedom variant and the Independence variant. The Freedom variant team is led by Lockheed Martin and the Independence variant is led by Austal USA.

Joe DePietro, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin small combatants and ship systems, said: ‘We are excited to continue our partnership with the US Navy and FMM to build and deliver capable ships to the fleet. With the Freedom-variant in serial production, we continue to enhance efficiency and incorporate capability while maintaining ship and programme affordability.’

Work on this contract is expected to be complete by February 2026.