Criticized USS Freedom to be Sent to Singapore on 10 Month Deployment

Rear Admiral Thomas Rowden told reporters on Wednesday that the Navy's new Littoral Comabt Ship, USS Freedom would deploy to Singapore next spring.

Singapore is located along the Strait of Malacca, the primary link between the Indian and Pacific oceans and a passage way for more than 40 percent of the world's global trade.

This deployment marks the White House commitment to the region and emphasizes its ability to engage with nations in the region. Last year, President Obama called for more U.S. presence in Asia-Pacific to help rebalance the region after years of land war in the Middle East.

Increased influence in the region includes opportunities for joint military training with the Philippines and will include a Marine Corps presence in northern Australia.

Last month China warned that increased U.S. presence in the region, specifically the joint U.S. - Philippine military exercises had raised tensions over contested waters between China and the Philippines.

The USS Freedom is the first in the Navy’s new Freedom class Littoral Combat Ships, designed to reach speeds of up to 40 knot, clear mines and spot submarines. The ships hold just 40 crew members, making for a minimal impact.

Also on Wednesday, Congresswoman Jackie Speier called for the Government Accountability Office to review the designs on the Freedom class vessels, citing cracks in the hull and severe corrosion on the USS Freedom.