Crenshaw: Six LCS Headed to Mayport in Early 2016

Press Release

Congressman Ander Crenshaw today (8/7) pointed to the U.S. Navy's official announcement regarding the first six Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) that will be homeported at Naval Station Mayport starting in 2016 is an example of the LCS's and Mayport's key and lasting role in our national security.

Naval Station Mayport will be the East Coast homeport for the LCS with more ships expected by 2020.

Crenshaw, a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement:

"This is great news for our national security and for the First Coast. The world is not a safe place, and the Navy is continually being asked to do more with its resources. That's why I've been fighting on Capitol Hill to fund and maintain a robust fleet that includes the LCS, and bring these ships to Northeast Florida.

"With its strategic location, Naval Station Mayport is the perfect fit for the LCS and cruisers, including the three-ship Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The USS New York is already here, and the USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) and the USS Fort McHenry (LSD-43) are expected later this month.

"With national security threats at home and around the globe, cutting back the military is not an option. Naval Station Mayport and all our First Coast military assets help anchor our national security. As the only Florida Member on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I am committed to making sure they remain strong."

In its official announcement, the Navy stated that the homeporting is expected to bring 900 Sailors and support personnel to the Mayport area. The ships are the future Little Rock (LCS 9), Sioux City (LCS 11), Wichita (LCS13), Billings (LCS 15), Indianapolis (LCS 17) and LCS 19 (name pending).

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