Namesake: Independence River, UFP
Status: In Service
Class: Spirit MK-2
NATO Callsign: India,Papa,Romeo
(Independence River)
The USS Independence River is the first of the Spirit MK 2 class, and broke new ground in Destroyer Development. It was the second aircraft to bear the name, after a Manona-class Frigate
As Hostilities between the Federation and the First Order heated up, the Spirit-class was re-designed for the Federation. Using technology from the Lexington and Liam St. John-class Frigates as well as past knowledge, the Spirit MK-2 was born.
The Name was given to the ship by President John B.G. as the first plane he himself named, without any other previous names being decided upon. It is named for the longest river contained only within Federation Territory.
The Independence River currently is undergoing an inspection of damage, in order for it to continue with the First Fleet Service. The damage was sustained during transport from PMMS to Founders United on April 27th. While in transit, a storm hit the fleet (consisting of the Independence River, Yahara River, Koskonong Creek, and St. Croix River), and the Independence River assumed a shield formation. The Fleet charged the storm, and eventually most of the ships made it through with minor damage, except for the Independence River. The ship took most of the damage, more so to the back section near the tail. It is estimated that the First Fleet Command will opt to keep her, but repairs will need to be extensive.
The Independence River is currently serving with the First Fleet, under the Command of John B.G. and Carson Clumpner. It is the marked lead vessel of task force B-15, although the St. Croix River is assuming this role temporarily.