LCS 18 launched in Alabama

The US Navy accepted delivery of the future Littoral Combat Ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) during a ceremony at the Austal USA shipyard on August 31.

The delivery marks the official transfer of LCS-18 from the Austal USA-led shipbuilding team to the navy. It is the final milestone before commissioning, which is yet to be finalised.

Charleston is the 16th LCS to be delivered to the navy and the eighth of the Independence variant. The Independence variant is noted for its unique trimaran hull and its large flight deck.