A few days ago, the U.S. Navy commissioned its latest Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) of the Freedom class, the USS Nantucket (LCS 27), during a ceremony held in Boston, Massachusetts. The event also featured the presence of the USS Constitution, the Navy’s oldest ship still in service.
The USS Nantucket is the 14th Littoral Combat Ship to join the U.S. Navy and the third to bear this name. Developed by Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri Marinette Marine, construction began in 2017. The ship was christened on August 7, 2021, and delivered to the Navy on July 29, 2024. Its next steps will involve deployment to its homeport at Naval Station Mayport in Florida.
The Freedom class has faced considerable debate and challenges due to various technical issues, the lack of advanced combat capabilities, and the evolving operational environments where these ships are expected to perform, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Among the most highlighted technical problems were issues with the transmission system, which prompted the U.S. Navy to activate a contractual mechanism suspending the delivery of new ships until the issue was resolved. Additionally, the Navy launched a repair program for affected vessels. As of October, seven ships have undergone the necessary repairs to restore full functionality, leaving an equivalent number still in service that require similar fixes.
Technological and Operational Capabilities of the Freedom Class
The USS Nantucket is equipped with the Over-the-Horizon Weapons System (OTH-WS), which includes the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), providing long-range offensive and coastal defense capabilities. It also features the MK 70 Payload Delivery System (PDS), based on the proven MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) technology, enhancing rapid deployment capabilities.
Designed as an agile and versatile vessel, the USS Nantucket is capable of operating in both nearshore environments and open waters. Its missions include maritime security, sea control, deterrence, and support for forward presence operations.
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