What material is the hull of a Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) primarily made of?

The hull of a Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is primarily made of aluminum due to its advantageous properties such as strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. Aluminum allows the vessels to maintain higher speeds and maneuverability, which are crucial for their operational effectiveness in littoral zones, where shallow waters and close to shore operations are common.

Using aluminum also means that the hulls can be made lighter compared to traditional steel hulls, enhancing the ship's ability to be both fast and agile. Additionally, aluminum's resistance to corrosion—especially in maritime environments—helps in reducing maintenance costs and prolonging the lifespan of the hull. Other materials such as fiberglass, plastic, and steel have their own applications but do not offer the same balance of performance and durability as aluminum does for the specific design and mission profiles of Littoral Combat Ships.