(WXYZ) — The future USS Cooperstown, currently known as Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) 23, completed its acceptance trials in Lake Michigan.
Lockheed Martin said Monday LCS 23 trials on the Great Lake included a full-power rul, maneuverability testing, and surface and air detect-to-engage demonstrations of the ship's combat system.
The next step is for the ship to undergo final outfitting and fine-tuning before it will be delivered to the U.S. Navy in 2021. LCS 23 is the 12th Freedom-variant LCS designed by Lockheed Martin.
“LCS 23, like other Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ships, delivers unique flexibility and capability to the U.S. Navy,” said Joe DePietro, Lockheed Martin vice president and general manager, Small Combatants and Ship Systems. “Freedom-variant LCS are inherently capable, and they offer 40% reconfigurable hull space to evolve to future U.S. Navy missions. During acceptance trials, LCS 23 proved its maneuverability, automation and core combat capability.”
The ship is designed to support mine countermeasures, anti-submarine and surface warfare missions and is easily adapted to serve future missions for the U.S. military.
The ship is equipped with Rolling Airframe Missiles and a Mark 110 gun which is capable of firing 220 rounds per minute. 40% of its hull can be reconfigured to integrate Longbow Hellfire Missiles, 30 mm guns and other vehicles.
“I would like to commend the entire Freedom Team on the successful acceptance trials of LCS 23,” said Jan Allman, CEO of Fincantieri Marinette Marine. “I’m continuously proud of the dedication and perseverance shown by the entire team to provide our customer, the US Navy, with the most agile, capable warship.”
