General Dynamics announced this afternoon that its first Littoral Combat Ship, the Independence (LCS-2), has completed builder's trials, which began July 2, on Oct. 18. The purpose of the tests is to evaluate the performance of the ship's propulsion, communications, navigation and core mission systems. "Many" of more than 50 test events were conducted in high sea-states and wind conditions, according to a company statement. "The ship's flight deck remained stable despite sea state conditions and maneuvers," the statement adds...