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. . The U.S.S. Independence ("LCS-2") A triple-hulled, weapon-laden, monster. . .
. We've been hearing rumblings about the U.S. Navy's triple- hulled ships, but here's one that was launched last month, the, "U.S.S Independence". . . 
. . Built by General Dynamics, it's called a, "littoral combat ship" (LCS). "Littoral" means, "close-to-shore", and that's where these fleet-hulled babies will operate. They're tailor- made for launching helicopters and armored vehicles, sweeping mines and firing all-manner of torpedoes, missiles, and machine- guns. . .
. The tri-maran can move huge weapons around faster than any ship in the Navy. Ironic that - with all that high-tech built in - the ship reminds us of the, "Merrimac-Iron-clad" from Civil War days. . .
. These ships were designed to be relatively inexpensive - this one's a bargain at $208-million. The navy plans to build 55 of them. This tri-maran is the first of the new fire-breathing breed, ready to scoot out of dry- dock at a rumored 60-knots. It's like a speedy and heavily-armed aircraft- carrier for helicopters. This ship can kick butt, and is surprisingly affordable. . .
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