What is the status of the LCS program?
The Navy awarded contracts to two industry teams, one led by Lockheed Martin and the other led by General Dynamics, to develop final system designs. The LCS Flight 0 contracts, which include options for detail design and construction of up to two ships (of each type) funded between FY 2005-07, have been awarded to both industry teams. Construction is underway on both designs. Keel laying for Independence (LCS 2) was completed on January 19, 2006. Keel laying for Freedom (LCS 1) was completed on June 1, 2005. The General Dynamics LCS Core Mission System team held an Industry Day on May 31, 2006. The Industry Day was held as a way to conduct an open competition to identify the best combat system capabilities, shipboard electronics and software for the third General Dynamics LCS and follow-on ships.
