The U.S. Navy has formally commissioned USS Pierre (LCS-38), the last Independence-variant littoral combat ship, during a ceremony held in Panama City, Florida. With this milestone, the Navy concludes its multiyear trimaran LCS production program and adds one of the most refined vessels of the series to its active fleet.
High-Speed Performance in Shallow Waters
Built with an aluminum trimaran hull, USS Pierre delivers exceptional stability and agility during high-speed maneuvers. Powered by a water-jet propulsion system capable of exceeding 40 knots, the ship excels in shallow or congested coastal zones where larger vessels struggle to operate. Its 3,100-ton displacement and expansive flight deck provide flexibility for a wide range of naval missions.
Modular Architecture for Multi-Mission Adaptability
USS Pierre supports modular mission packages tailored for:
- Surface Warfare (SUW)
- Mine Countermeasures (MCM)
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
These packages integrate unmanned aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles, advanced sonar systems, and versatile command-and-control solutions, enabling rapid adaptation to evolving maritime threats.
Enhanced Weapons and Sensor Capabilities
The ship’s combat suite features the Mk 110 57 mm gun, SeaRAM air-defense system, and optional 30 mm guns for close-in engagements. The TRS-3D radar enhances its ability to detect and track low-signature coastal threats, while the open-architecture combat system supports future sensor and unmanned system integrations.
Strategic Value for U.S. Naval Operations
With the commissioning of USS Pierre, the U.S. Navy strengthens its distributed maritime operations posture across regions such as the Indo-Pacific, Caribbean Sea, and U.S. coastal zones. Officials emphasized that the vessel’s unmanned integration and shallow-water agility will play a critical role in maritime security, partner training missions, and high-tempo patrol operations.
