Facing an uncertain future, Independence-class LCS returns from first deployment

After returning from a successful first deployment, the Navy will continue to operate Littoral Combat Ship Jackson (LCS-6) at its "full potential" despite facing a potential divestment in fiscal year 2024. While there are no trimaran-hulled, Independence-variant LCS slated to be decommissioned in the Navy’s FY-23 budget request, the service’s 30-year shipbuilding plan notes that two Independence-class LCS will be decommissioned in FY-24 -- Jackson and Montgomery (LCS-8). Capt. Marc Crawford, commodore of Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One, said that...