The US Navy’s Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, USS Makin Island (LHD 8), has successfully completed nine-day scheduled sea trials.
Prior to sea trials, the LHD has undergone 13-month phased maintenance availability (PMA).
During testing, USS Makin Island crew validated a number of shipboard systems, including communication circuits, damage control systems, navigation systems and propulsion plant.
The crew also carried out full-power runs of the ship, ballasting demonstrations and flight operations to validate its capability.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataUSS Makin Island commanding officer, captain Alvin Holsey said the trials assessed if the repairs were done correctly, as well as provided an opportunity to operate and test equipment as designed following a lengthy maintenance period.
"We had a few growing pains, but their focus remained on executing safe and precise evolutions," Holsey said.
See Also:
USS Makin Island executive officer, captain Michael Feyedelem said the ship’s existing systems have been upgraded as well as repairs to damaged or degraded equipment have been made as part of PMA.
"The maintenance period allowed significant repairs and design changes to be made to the ship’s exhaust stacks, as well as numerous other upgrades to keep Makin Island at the forefront of operational capability," Feyedelem said.
Meanwhile, Makin Island crew members conducted in-port and at-sea demonstrations and checks, of critical shipboard systems.
USS Makin Island is the US Navy ship’s first ship to use a hybrid-electric propulsion system, designed to run on auxiliary propulsion motors at low speeds and on gas turbines at higher speeds.
The technology is expected to save more than $250m, proving the US Navy’s commitment to energy awareness and conservation, over the course of the ship’s lifecycle.
In addition, the technology will allow the US Department of the Navy to reduce the use of fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions and cleaner air.
Image: USS Makin Island’s (LHD 8) Mk-38 Mod 2 machine gun system. Photo: courtesy of US Navy, by mass communication specialist 3rd class Ethan Tracey/Released.
