The San Diego-based littoral combat ship USS Coronado arrived in Singapore over the weekend, the Navy reported Monday.
The Coronado is the first Independence-class LCS to deploy to Southeast Asia. The version has a trimaran hull, a larger flight deck and more fuel- carrying capability than the Freedom variant.
“Littoral combat ships are ideal for South and Southeast Asia, easily integrated into exercises and operations in the shallow and congested sealanes, enhancing U.S. presence and deepening ties with allies and partners,” said Rear Adm. Don Gabrielson, commander of Task Force 73. “Littoral combat ships are in high demand out here — we’re happy to welcome Coronado and her crew.”
The Coronado left San Diego on its maiden deployment in June, and took part in a major exercise off Hawaii with the navies of allied Pacific Rim countries.
Its voyage from Pearl Harbor to Southeast Asia was delayed two months ago by a mechanical breakdown in its propulsion system, something that has plagued several LCS-type boats.
The LCS is a fast, agile ship designed for fighting in coastal waters. Teams of crew members rotate every four months or so, allowing the ship to remain deployed for longer periods of time while reducing wear-and-tear on sailors.
–City News Service
