Beginning with a pair of new ships. I think I saw Independence when it was first being developed back in 2002 in Norfolk. I was at Langley AFB setting up a function , and I saw this futuristic looking thing go out to sea past the base.

At the time I really had no idea what I was seeing!

 

Unfortunately, these Littoral Ships are littered with problems. Not only the Independence and Freedom but, the Fort Worth and Milwaukee are having problems, as well. Then there is the BIGGEST issue...economy of scale

"While the ships are having their on-board problems, they are also facing a lack of support at the Pentagon, specifically from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter."

http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/25/politics/u-s-navy-littoral-combat-ship-problems/

...

 

Young kids driving those hot rods have got to quit grinding the gears!