Littoral Combat Ship Omaha (LCS 12) Completes Acceptance Trials

MOBILE, Ala. – Omaha (LCS 12), the sixth Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) built by Austal, successfully completed acceptance trials May 12 in the Gulf of Mexico.

This milestone achievement involved the execution of intense comprehensive tests by the Austal-led industry team while underway, which demonstrated to the Navy the successful operation of the ship’s major systems and equipment. Acceptance trials are the last significant milestone before delivery of the ship, which is expected this summer.

“I am extremely proud to be a part of this talented team of men and women who achieved another major milestone in the LCS program,” commented Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. “With the imminent delivery of LCS 12 and with Manchester (LCS 14) right behind her, scheduled for delivery later this year, Austal has achieved and maintained incredible momentum that positions us well into the future. We are excited that these ships are joining the fleet. It is very rewarding to see what USS Coronado (LCS 4) has done on her maiden deployment, demonstrating the capabilities and flexibility of these great ships and we are eager for Omaha to take her place in the fleet.”

The LCS program is at full rate production delivering two ships a year and is continuing its momentum at Austal USA with six ships currently under construction. Manchester (LCS 14) is preparing for trials and Tulsa (LCS 16) will begin trials at the end of the year. Final assembly is well underway on Charleston (LCS 18) and Cincinnati (LCS 20). Modules for Kansas City (LCS 22) are under construction in Austal’s module manufacturing facility and the first aluminium will be cut on Oakland (LCS 24) tomorrow.