US Navy accepts delivery of final Freedom-class LCS

Melissa Kirkendall, Program Executive Officer, Unmanned and Small Combatants, stated, “With the final Freedom-variant LCS now delivered, we celebrate the successful outcome of years of innovation and commitment.”

According to the navy, the LCS class consists of fast, agile warships designed for operation in near-shore environments. They can operate independently or as part of a networked battle force alongside larger surface combatants.

The USS Cleveland is the fourth US Navy vessel to bear the name, succeeding a protected cruiser, a light cruiser, and an amphibious transport dock.