GAO: Navy overpays for LCS

A 32-page report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on April 30 notes the Navy's maintenance program for Littoral Combat Ships includes major unplanned work. It says the Navy "lacks sufficient manufacturer technical data" to maintain systems aboard the ships, and that extra coordination and longer maintenance periods are required, as well as a reliance on original equipment manufacturers. The first LCS was built in 2008, which means some are close to retirement. Thirty-five LCS are currently at sea, under construction or planned by the Navy, a $61B program of long-term operation. (Source: UPI 04/30/21) Gulf Coast Note: Austal USA in Alabama builds the Independence class LCS. Marinette (Wis.) Marine builds the Freedom variant, which is having major propulsion issues. GAO report: Navy overpays for littoral combat ship maintenance - UPI.com