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MCS-12 Never More Brightly |
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USS INCHON (MCS-12)
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Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm identified the need for a dedicated command, control and support ship to support mine countermeasures operations. The USS Inchon (LPH-12), slated for decommissioning, was selected to be converted to a Mine Countermeasures Support (MCS) ship at Ingalls Shipbuilding, Inc., Pascagoula, Miss. The USS Inchon was converted from an amphibious assault ship with major changes made to the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) system including upgrades to the close-in weapons system (Phalanx) and various radars. The ship supports an embarked helicopter squadron of eight MH-53E Sea Dragons and two SAR/spotter helicopters, as well as providing alongside support and services for up to four MCM/MHC ships. It can support and accommodate four Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) groups with assigned equipment. Additionally it provides C4I facilities for the MCM group commander. New repair facilities and upgrades to older one were also added, giving the MSC-12 the ability to accomplish whatever repairs are necessary to weapons, aircraft, etc., in any theater of operation. |
