LCS 24 completes trials in GoM

MOBILE, Ala. - The future USS Oakland (LCS 24) successfully concluded acceptance trials May 22 following a series of in-port and underway demonstrations in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). During trials, the final milestone prior to the ship’s delivery, the Navy conducts comprehensive tests of systems. “I am impressed” with the results achieved by the Navy and Austal USA shipyard’s industry team during the trials, said Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program Manager Capt. Mike Taylor. Following delivery and commissioning, USS Oakland will sail to California to be homeported in San Diego with 11 of its sister ships. Four other Independence-variant LCS are under construction at Austal USA in Mobile, Ala.: The future USS Mobile (LCS 26) undergoing final assembly; USS Savannah (LCS 28); USS Canberra (LCS 30); and USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32). Additionally, Austal USA is preparing for construction of the future USS Augusta (LCS 34), USS Kingsville (LCS 36) and USS Pierre (LCS 38). LCS is now the second-largest Navy surface ship class in production. (Source: PEO Unmanned and Small Combatants 05/22/20)