U.S. Navy’s next Littoral Combat Ship to be named USS Mobile

Secretary of the U.S. Navy Ray Mabus announced on Thursday, the next Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) will be named USS Mobile (LCS 26) to recognize the Alabama city’s significant contribution to Navy ship building.

“I can’t think of a better way to recognize the superior craft and workmanship Mobilians put into each of these ships,” Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said. “A little piece of Mobile goes into each of the Independence Class LCS ships made right here at Austal, but this ship is especially significant because it marks us as a regionally important U.S. city with global impact and magnificent workers. I have no doubt Austal will produce another incredible warship worthy of the name Mobile that will not only meet the standards of today but will adapt to the evolving needs of the future. “

Stimpson sent a letter to Mabus last year requesting the Navy consider naming a future LCS the USS Mobile as a tribute to the City of Mobile and its citizens “who put their heart and soul into every warship they build.”

Alabama 1st District U.S. Bradley Byrne was present for the announcement ceremony Thursday in Washington, D.C..

“Our area takes such pride in building these fine ships, just the latest vessel in Mobile’s long history of shipbuilding,” said Byrne. “I know the spirit and patriotism of Mobile will be encapsulated in this ship.”

Byrne continued, “I appreciate Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus for working with us to make this possible, and I look forward to one day standing in the Mobile waterfront to christen and commission this fine ship.”