USS Nantucket Commissioned at Charlestown Navy Yard

The USS Nantucket, a Freedom-class littoral combat ship, was commissioned into the U.S. Navy on November 16, 2024, at the Charlestown Navy Yard, alongside the historic USS Constitution. Despite the program's history of mechanical issues and budget overruns, the ship was praised for its technological advancements and versatility, featuring advanced systems like the MK 70 Payload Delivery System and using water jets instead of traditional propellers to enhance maneuverability. The littoral combat ships, designed for near-shore operations, have faced criticism but are still considered vital for addressing complex maritime threats. The commissioning ceremony included speeches from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Lockheed Martin executives, who emphasized the ship's role in future naval strategy. This marks the 14th Freedom-variant ship commissioned, reflecting the ongoing evolution and challenges of integrating these vessels into the Navy's strategic objectives. The USS Nantucket will be based at Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville, Florida.