Earlier this week, the successful completion of acceptance trials for the USS Pierre (LCS 38), the last of the U.S. Navy’s new Independence-class Littoral Combat Ships, was officially confirmed. According to information released by Austal, the vessel returned to port on June 11 after completing a series of demanding open-sea trials, during which the performance of its various systems and equipment was evaluated. Formal delivery to the U.S. surface fleet is expected in the coming weeks, pending final approval from the Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV).
This latest trial marks a significant milestone for both Austal and the U.S. Navy, as the USS Pierre is not only the nineteenth vessel in the class, but also the last in the controversial Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program. “The completion of LCS 38’s sea trials marks an important milestone at Austal USA, as it is the final LCS to leave our control for trials,” said Harley Combs, Vice President of Surface Ship Programs at the company.
The USS Pierre (LCS 38) was launched on August 5, 2024, at Austal’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, marking the final stages of the program. Just days after its launch, the third-to-last ship in the class, USS Kingsville (LCS 36), was officially commissioned.
The Independence-class LCS program began in the early 2000s with high expectations, but over time became the subject of repeated criticism due to structural issues, design limitations, and cost overruns. Among the most significant problems reported during their service life were major structural defects—at least six vessels in the class suffered from hull cracking—as well as widespread transmission system issues, which ultimately led to reduced mission capabilities, including a speed cap of no more than 15 knots.
Finally, once the USS Pierre is officially delivered and transferred to its homeport at Naval Base San Diego—joining the other LCS vessels already operating in the region—Austal will have completed the construction of 19 ships over a period of more than 15 years, bringing one of its most ambitious and challenging naval production programs to a close and opening the door to future shipbuilding projects.
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