USA: Chief of Naval Operations Visits Ingalls Shipyard and PCU

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert was hosted by Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. leadership during a visit to Ingalls Shipyard​ and Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) San Diego (LPD 22), Oct. 25.

U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker accompanied CNO during the visit which was led by Ingalls Shipbuilding President Irwin F. Edenzon. Additionally, during the tour of PCU San Diego, the Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Joe Haydel, shared with CNO updated capabilities the ship will have and progress being made.

“I was impressed with the ships being built here, particularly the San Diego,” said Greenert. “The kind of multimission, multi-capability, cutting edge technology built here in the shipyard will serve ships for 30 to 40 years.”

While aboard LPD 22 Greenert and Wicker saw firsthand by walking the decks and ladders where Sailors and Marines will eat, sleep and fight. From the engineering spaces to medical spaces to top decks, Greenert and Wickers saw a capable ship that will soon be accepted by the Navy.

During a media availability following the visit, CNO talked about Ingalls Shipyard and the vital role it plays in the nation’s investment in the Navy and Marine Corps.

“An amphibious ship brings a small footprint and great capability,” said Greenert. “It brings you persistence and as necessary, a lethal force with a credible power source.”

Additionally, Greenert highlighted the importance of amphibious transport docks (LPD) and the role they play to providing the President and nation off-shore options.

PCU San Diego successfully completed builder’s sea trials, and Ignalls Shipyard is currently preparing the ship for Navy acceptance trials in November. It is scheduled for commissioning in its namesake city in the spring of 2012.

[mappress]

Source: navy, October 27, 2011