HII Completes Acceptance Trials on Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) and Advances Production of LPD Flight II Line
PASCAGOULA, Miss. March 04, 2024 - Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), through its Ingalls Shipbuilding division, proudly announced the successful completion of acceptance trials for the amphibious transport dock Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) in the Gulf of Mexico. This milestone marks the final Flight I transition ship before Ingalls moves into serial production of the LPD Flight II line.
The acceptance trials, conducted in the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico, have proven the capabilities and readiness of LPD 29. The ship showcased its mission readiness, including its propulsion system, maneuvering abilities, and auxiliary systems. Furthermore, it successfully completed various operations, including the anchor handling, flight operations, and combat systems’ performance.
Ingalls Shipbuilding, known for its exceptional shipbuilding capabilities, has once again upheld its reputation with the successful completion of the acceptance trials. Their team of skilled engineers, craftsmen, and technicians have demonstrated their expertise in building and testing advanced naval vessels.
This significant milestone also opens the doors for Ingalls Shipbuilding to focus on the production of the LPD Flight II line. With LPD 29 serving as the final transition vessel, the company can now streamline its production processes to deliver superior amphibious transport docks. The LPD Flight II line is expected to feature enhanced capabilities and advanced technologies, meeting the evolving operational needs of the U.S. Navy.
In addition to completing the acceptance trials for LPD 29, HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division has accomplished other notable milestones recently. One such achievement is the successful launch of the Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) into the James River. This remarkable accomplishment demonstrates HII’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art submarines for defense purposes.
Meanwhile, Newport News Shipbuilding has also initiated topside testing of the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) on the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CVN 79). This cutting-edge technology has the potential to revolutionize aircraft carrier operations, providing smoother and more efficient launching capabilities.
With these series of accomplishments, HII continues to solidify its position as a leading provider of advanced naval systems and vessels. The successful completion of acceptance trials for LPD 29 and the launch of the Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts reflect the company’s commitment to delivering top-notch defense capabilities to the U.S. Navy.

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