Defence Online

New US ship makes a splash

Maritime September 21, 2016

The USS Wichita was officially launched on 17^th September, with a traditional ceremony on the banks of the Menominee River.

The 13^th Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) was launched sideways into the river following it’s christening where ship sponsor, Kate Lehrer, broke a champagne bottle across the ship’s bow just prior to the launch.

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“It is an honour and privilege to serve as the sponsor of the future USS Wichita and to be a part of this major milestone in the ship’s journey towards joining the great U.S. Navy fleet,” Lehrer said. “I look forward and to an ongoing relationship with Wichita’s future crews and their families throughout the ship’s service.”

Following the ceremony, the ship will undergo additional outfitting and testing at Fincantieri Marinette Marine before the ship’s anticipated delivery next year.

“The christening and launch of LCS 13 marks an important step in her journey towards joining the fleet,” said Joe North, vice president of Littoral Ships and Systems. “The Freedom-variant LCS plays a critical role in the U.S. Navy’s maritime security strategy, and we are committed to getting LCS 13 and her highly capable sister ships into combatant commanders’ hands as quickly as possible.”

The future USS Wichita marks the 13^th LCS constructed for the US Navy at the yard, with a further six currently under construction and a further three in long-lead material procurement. With a design that allows for quick construction and flexible layout within, the LCS allows the Navy to rapidly acquire and deploy a fleet of highly flexible and capable ships at a fraction of the cost of other platforms.

“Fincantieri Marinette Marine is proud to christen and launch another Freedom-variant warship that will enable our Navy to carry out its missions where and when needed,” said Jan Allman, Fincantieri Marinette Marine president and CEO. “We continue to optimize our production processes and leverage the craftsmanship and skills of our employees to produce these high quality vessels for our sailors.”

LCS 13 will be the third U.S. Navy ship named USS Wichita. Previous ships to bear the name included a World War II heavy cruiser (CA-45) and a Wichita-class Replenishment Oiler (AOR-1).

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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.