Minesweeper II.

This is coolbert:

Conclusion.

From that previous blog entry:

"They [Avenger] are scheduled to be replaced in the coming years by Littoral Combat Ships, which can be fit with a minesweeping package"

YES INDEED. That new naval warship Litoral Combat Ship [LCS] designated as the replacement for the current Avenger class of minesweerpers.

LCS multi-faceted and multi-role naval vessels designed to operate in littoral waters [green/coastal] and able to perform a number of task oriented missions, using modular packages [containers] pre-loaded mission task oriented and ready to go!

LCS as planned a surface/anti-submarine/anti-mine warfighter with some innovative and interesting features.

"the LCS program will initially draw upon module sets for Mine Warfare (MIW: 24 planned), Anti-submarine Warfare (ASW: 16 planned) and Surface Warfare (SUW: 24 planned)."

Trimaran hull with high speed plus good stability.

From a variety of sources we have more info on the LCS. That minesweeping "package' having been tested and successful!

"Navy Tests LCS Minesweeping System"

"PANAMA CITY, Fla. (NNS) -- The Navy announced the successful completion of shore-based and at-sea integrated system tests on the prototype Unmanned Influence Sweep System . . . at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division, in Panama City, Fla"

"Designed for the LCS as part of the mine countermeasures mission package, the system provides unmanned mine sweeping capability that keeps warfighters out of the mine field. The system consists of an unmanned surface craft that carries and tows the minesweeping payload."

"Mine sweeping gear is one of many modular packages that can be fitted to the new Littoral Combat Ship. Mission flexibility is a high priority for the new program"

"the vessels will fill many roles including launch and recovery of manned and unmanned vehicles, anti-countermeasure duty, surface combat, and submarine mitigation. Modular equipment packages to suit the tactical situation can be swapped at pier side in a few days."

LCS is a hybrid? The navy is hoping the LCS can do it all and do it all well. Hybrids traditionally have a lackluster performance the U.S. Navy hoping the LCS is the exception to the rule.

coolbert.