USS Freedom (LCS 1)

The littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) is moored at the Port of Colon during a maintenance availability. Freedom is conducting counter-illicit trafficking operations and theater security cooperation in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility. (Photo: U.S. Navy/Lt. Ed Early/Released)

USS Independence (LCS 2)

The Navy's newest littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS 2) arrives at Mole Pier at Naval Air Station Key West. Independence is on the way to Norfolk, Va., for commencement of initial testing and evaluation of the aluminum vessel before sailing to its homeport in San Diego. Independence is a fast, agile, mission-focused ship specifically designed to defeat "anti-access" threats in shallow, coastal water regions, including surface craft, diesel submarines and mines. (Photo: U.S. Navy/Naval Air Crewman 2nd Class Nicholas Kontodiakos/Released)

USS Freedom (LCS 1)

The littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) maneuvers off the port quarter of the guided-missile frigate USS McInerney (FFG 8) during joint counter-illicit trafficking operations in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility. (Photo: U.S. Navy/Lt. Ed Early/Released)

USS Freedom (LCS 1)

The littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) conducts joint counter-illicit trafficking operations with the guided-missile frigate USS McInerney (FFG 8) in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility. (Photo: U.S. Navy/Lt. Ed Early/Released)