The US Navy has successfully christened its seventh littoral combat ship-7 (LCS-7) as USS Detroit, which was followed by its launch at Marinette Marine shipyard in Marinette, Wisconsin, US.
US Navy Secretary Ray Mabus said: "The name Detroit represents so much. It represents the hard working American shipyard, factory and assembly line workers and the American spirit of hard work, patriotism and perseverance.
"The USS Detroit will carry these values and this spirit around the world.
"It is tailor-made for our 21st century operations and maritime security missions, from the wide expanses of the Pacific to the littorals of Africa."
Capable of cruising at speeds of more than 40k and manoeuvring in water below 20ft deep, the LCS-7 will operate in shallow water environments against challenging threats in coastal regions, mainly mines, submarines and fast surface craft.
Built by a Lockheed Martin-led team, it will act as a platform for the launch and recovery of manned and unmanned vehicles.
The vessel’s modular design allows it to be reconfigured for anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures or surface warfare missions, as per the requirements.
Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training business executive vice-president Dale Bennett said: "The Lockheed Martin-led team’s LCS design is lethal, survivable and affordable.
"These ships will help the navy achieve its goal to increase forward presence and can be upgraded or modified quickly to meet future missions."
Featuring advanced networking capability to share tactical information with other navy aircraft, ships, submarines and joint units, the LCS can exchange mission packages dock side in a matter of days and adapt to different tactical situations.
The modular approach also allows it to incorporate new or improved systems.
Image: USS Detroit during its launch at Marinette Marine shipyard in Wisconsin, US. Photo: courtesy of Lockheed Martin Corporation.
