First Indy-class advanced tact training

SAN DIEGO - For the first time in the Independence-class of Littoral Combat Ship(s’) history, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) conducted Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) within the Navy’s 3rd Fleet area of operations. The training, concluded April 22, provided the crew of USS Montgomery (LCS 8) advanced training to increase tactical proficiency, lethality, and interoperability. “SWATT is the culmination of a phased training approach, which prepares our ships and our sailors to win the fight,” said Capt. Matthew McGonigle, commander of LCS Squadron 1. LCS 18 – one of nine Independence variants built at Austal USA of Mobile, Ala., that have been delivered to the Navy - conducted several training exercises during the multi-day training event, including anti-submarine, surface, and air warfare. Complex live-fire events included torpedo countermeasure exercises and gunnery exercises. “The Montgomery Blue team honed their skills during the complex exercise and without a doubt, their watch-stander proficiency was enhanced,” said Cmdr. Edward A. Rosso, Montgomery’s commanding officer. (Source: Naval Surface Force Pacific 04/29/19) Austal USA has six LCS currently under construction (LCS 20-30) and five are awaiting start of construction. Most all of the even-numbered hulls (Independence class) are homeported in San Diego.