USS Richard M. McCool Jr (LPD 29): A New Era for the US Navy’s Amphibious Forces
The USS Richard M. McCool Jr (LPD 29), the latest addition to the US Navy’s fleet, is currently en route to Pensacola, Florida, where it will be officially commissioned into active service. This amphibious transport dock is the 13th vessel in the San Antonio-class, designed to enhance the Navy’s capabilities in various operational contexts, from combat to humanitarian missions.
A Modern Amphibious Transport Dock
The San Antonio-class ships, including the USS Richard M. McCool Jr, are engineered to support the Marine Corps’ "mobility triad," which consists of advanced amphibious assault vehicles, landing craft air cushion, and the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft. These vessels are crucial for conducting a wide range of operations, including amphibious assaults, expeditionary warfare, and humanitarian assistance missions. The versatility of the LPDs allows them to adapt to the evolving needs of modern warfare and disaster response.
Kari Wilkinson, president of Ingalls Shipbuilding, emphasized the significance of shipbuilding in ensuring the freedom and security of the nation. "When any of our ships sail away, it is a poignant reminder of the importance of shipbuilding to the freedom and security of our country," she stated, highlighting the commitment of the shipbuilding community to support those who serve.
Timeline of Development
The journey of the USS Richard M. McCool Jr began with a $1.43 billion contract awarded to Ingalls Shipbuilding in February 2018. The keel was laid in April 2019, marking the official start of construction. The ship is the last of the original San Antonio-class vessels, with the first ship, USS San Antonio (LPD 17), entering service in June 2000.
In 2018, the US Navy introduced a new configuration known as the Flight II variant, which incorporates several enhancements over the original design. These improvements include a ship-to-shore connector, the capability to operate the CH-53K helicopter, and upgraded troop armament stowage. While USS Harrisburg (LPD 30) will be the first fully-fledged Flight II unit, LPDs 28 and 29, including the Richard M. McCool Jr, feature design changes that transition from Flight I to Flight II specifications.
Recent Milestones
The USS Richard M. McCool Jr successfully completed sea trials in February 2023, testing all systems in the Gulf of Mexico. This critical phase ensured that the ship met operational standards before its delivery to the Navy, which is scheduled for spring 2024. The commissioning ceremony is set for September 7, 2024, at Naval Air Station Pensacola, marking a significant milestone in the ship’s journey.
Honoring a Hero
The naming of LPD 29 pays tribute to Captain Richard M. McCool Jr, a distinguished naval officer who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Despite sustaining severe injuries from shrapnel and burns, Captain McCool led efforts to extinguish fires on his ship and rescue injured sailors, exemplifying the courage and dedication that the Navy honors through this vessel.
Conclusion
As the USS Richard M. McCool Jr prepares to join the fleet, it symbolizes the ongoing evolution of the US Navy’s amphibious capabilities. With its advanced design and operational versatility, LPD 29 will play a vital role in supporting the Marine Corps and enhancing the Navy’s ability to respond to a wide array of challenges in the 21st century. The commissioning of this ship not only marks a new chapter for the Navy but also honors the legacy of a hero whose actions continue to inspire future generations of sailors and Marines.