The Navy plans to dismantle, sell or sideline eight ships, including the amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard (BHR) that was damaged by fire last summer. BHR will be dismantled starting April 15, according to a Navy-wide message. The service is also moving the first two littoral combat ships (LCS), Freedom and Independence, to an "out of commission, in reserve" (OCIR) status, according to the same message. Independence (built at Austal USA in Mobile, Ala.) will move into that status July 31, and Freedom on Sept. 30. Ships in OCIR are preserved for possible future reactivation. Navy leaders are planning to get rid of the first four LCS. CNO Adm. Mike Gilday said in January that the sea-service must rid itself of programs that don't fit fundamental missions: Sea control and the ability to project power forward. (Source: Military.com 02/17/21) Navy Announces Timeline to Dismantle Fire-Damaged Bonhomme Richard, Sideline 2 LCSs | Military.com
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