The USS Independence (LCS 2) entered service in 2010. The vessel design is based on that of a high-speed trimaran. Wärtsilä supplies two LJ 150E waterjets for the wing propulsion lines. Later vessels in the series are equipped with WLD 1500 SR waterjets on the wing propulsion lines and WLD 1720 SR waterjets on the centre propulsion lines. (photo courtesy of AUSTAL)
In 2010 as the first of a series of initially ten. The vessel is capable of speeds in excess of 40 knots and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep. The ‘USS Independence’ is an innovative combat ship designed to operate in shallow waters to counter challenging threats in coastal regions, specifically mines, submarines, and fast surface craft.