According to information published by the U.S. Navy on January 28, 2022, the Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship USS Savannah will be commissioned on Feb. 5. The Independence-class is a class of littoral combat ships built for the United States Navy.
The Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is a class of fast, agile, and versatile warships designed for operations in littoral or coastal areas. These ships are known for their modular design, allowing for flexible mission configurations to adapt to various tasks, such as surface warfare, mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare, and more.
The USS Savannah (LCS 28) will join the fleet as one of the newest additions to the U.S. Navy’s surface combatant force. It will be equipped with advanced systems and technologies to support its intended missions.
The commissioning ceremony itself is a significant event, typically involving the ship’s crew, distinguished guests, and naval officials. It includes the official transfer of the ship to the U.S. Navy, the raising of the ship’s commissioning pennant, and the symbolic activation of the ship’s crew.
For those interested in attending or learning more about the commissioning of the USS Savannah, it is recommended to refer to official announcements or statements from the U.S. Navy or the ship’s commanding authority. These sources should provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the ceremony, including any public access or virtual viewing options.
The ships are 127.4 m (418 ft) long, with a beam of 31.6 m (104 ft), and a draft of 13 ft (3.96 m). Their displacement is rated at 2,377 tons light, 3,228 tons full, and 851 tons deadweight.
The Raytheon SeaRAM missile defense system is installed on the hangar roof. The SeaRAM combines the sensors of the Phalanx 1B close-in ωεɑρσռ system with an 11-missile launcher for the RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile, creating an autonomous system.
The Independence-class ships also have an integrated LOS Mast, Sea Giraffe 3D Radar, and SeaStar Safire FLIR. LCS is a fast, agile, focused-mission platform designed for operation in near-shore environments yet capable of open-ocean operation. It is designed to defeat asymmetric “anti-access” threats such as mines, quiet diesel submarines, and fast surface craft.