LCS 10 completes GoM trials

The USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), a fifth Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship built by Austal USA’s shipyards in Mobile, Ala., successfully completed acceptance trials Nov. 18 in the Gulf of Mexico. The milestone involved the execution of intense comprehensive tests by the Austal-led industry team while underway. Acceptance trials are the last significant event before delivery of the ship, which is expected soon. Austal USA is progressing on a steady pace with seven ships currently under construction. The Omaha (LCS 12) and Manchester (LCS 14) are preparing for trials. Tulsa (LCS 16) will be christened and launched in early 2017. Final assembly is underway on Charleston (LCS 18); and modules for Cincinnati (LCS 20) and Kansas City (LCS 22) are under construction in Austal’s module manufacturing facility. (Source: Marine Link 11/25/16)