LCS2 'Independence', the high-speed trimaran combatant ship being constructed by shipbuilder Austal USA, completed a series of builder's trials on October 18 in the Gulf of Mexico.
The trials included more than 50 demonstration events to test the ship and all of its systems in preparation for final inspection by the US Navy before delivery.
During trials, the vessel sustained speed of 44 knots during the required four-hour full-power run, with a top speed in excess of 45 knots.
Many of the test events were conducted in high sea-state and wind conditions (2.4-metre waves and winds in excess of 25 knots).
Despite the weather, the ship repeatedly reached speeds of over 45 knots with propulsion and ride-control systems operating in full automatic mode.
During the repeated high-speed turns the ship demonstrated excellent agility and stability characteristics. The ship's flight deck remained stable despite the sea state conditions and manoeuvres.
Disclosure: Members of the Baird family or companies in the Baird Publications group own shares in Austal.