NORFOLK -- The maiden voyage for the Littoral Combat Ship USS Independence ends Wednesday when she arrives at Naval Station Norfolk.
She left Mobile, Alabama on March 26 and made stops inKey West and Mayport, Florida on her way here.
During the stay three-day stay in Hampton Roads, the ship will undergo additional testing and specialized crew training.
The trip marks the completion of initial testing and evaluation of the high-tech aluminum trimaran,first of its kind in the Naval Surface Force.
'This transit will allow us to gain valuable operational experience and is another large step toward bringing our unique and versatile capabilities to the fleet,' said Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, Independence Blue Crew commanding officer.
Independence is a 419-foot aluminum trimaran that can reach speeds in excess of 45 knots and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep. Propelled by four water jets in addition to two diesel and two gas turbine engines, the ship boasts a range of over 3,500 nautical miles.
Independence is manned by two rotational crews, 'blue' and 'gold,' of 40 Sailors each. The crews are further augmented by detachment specialists for each of the mission modules.
On the 17th, the ship will leave Norfolk for Port Everglades, Florida to take part in Fleet Week.
USS Independence will be homeported in San Diego.
