The first deployment of a littoral combat ship overseas is scheduled to begin March 1, when the San Diego-based USS Freedom leaves for Singapore, the Navy announced.
The new type of vessel is designed for fighting in coastal waters, and its modular design allows it to be configured in ways that meet mission requirements. Top speed is over 40 knots, according to the Navy.
The 378-foot-long USS Freedom, the first in its class, was commissioned in 2008. Littoral combat ships took years to get off the drawing board and into active service because of problems with cracks, communications systems and hull corrosion.
During its scheduled eight-month deployment, the Freedom will conduct maritime security operations, participate in international exhibitions and train with vessels of other countries, according to the Navy.
The ship left San Diego Thursday for a couple of days of sea trials.
– City News Service
