HII's Recent Milestone with Destroyer Ted Stevens
HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division has reached a significant achievement by completing the builder’s sea trials for the guided missile destroyer Ted Stevens (DDG 128). This event marks an important step in developing the second Flight III destroyer that Ingalls is constructing. The trials took place over several days in the Gulf of America, focusing on assessing the ship’s engineering, navigation, and combat systems to ensure its readiness for future acceptance trials and delivery to the U.S. Navy.
Success Through Dedication
Ben Barnett, the DDG Program Manager at Ingalls Shipbuilding, expressed gratitude towards the dedicated team who brought DDG 128 to the readiness stage for sea trials. His comments highlighted the teamwork and focus necessary to achieve this milestone, stating that the efforts demonstrate their commitment to delivering vessels with cutting-edge technology and quality to support the U.S. Navy fleet.
Extensive Testing and Validation
The sea trials included a comprehensive range of tests such as hull, mechanical, and electrical checks, along with the critical Flight III AN/SPY-6 radar array evaluation. These assessments are crucial for confirming that the destroyer will meet or surpass Navy standards when it comes to operational performance.
Innovations in Destroyer Design
The Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers embody the next evolution in surface combatants for the U.S. Navy. With various design enhancements, these ships provide considerably improved capabilities, featuring innovations such as the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System. These upgrades are essential for countering threats effectively as the Navy moves deeper into the 21st century.
Production and Delivery Capacity
Ingalls Shipbuilding has successfully delivered 35 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the Navy, including the first in the Flight III series, USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125). The yard is currently building five additional Flight III destroyers, including Ted Stevens (DDG 128), Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129), George M. Neal (DDG 131), Sam Nunn (DDG 133), and Thad Cochran (DDG 135).
Expanding Partnerships for Enhanced Output
Recently, HII announced plans to partner with multiple shipyards and fabricators across several states. This initiative aims to enhance production capacity in response to the increasing demand for naval ships. Ingalls will employ outfitted structural units for these destroyers, which will be constructed and inspected at partner locations before being integrated at Ingalls for final assembly.
Commitment to Quality and Security
As the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi, Ingalls Shipbuilding has over 86 years of experience in the design, construction, and maintenance of amphibious ships and destroyers for the U.S. Navy. Their commitment to national security remains steadfast as they continue to deliver innovative technological solutions and military vessels.
About HII
HII stands as a global defense leader, dedicated to providing advanced ships and solutions that uphold national security. With a legacy exceeding 135 years, HII plays a pivotal role in enhancing U.S. defense capabilities through its extensive offerings, including naval vessels, unmanned systems, cyber capabilities, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), and synthetic training environments. Headquartered in Virginia and employing 44,000 people, HII is at the forefront of ensuring military readiness and technological advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the significant upgrades in the Flight III destroyers?
The Flight III destroyers feature advanced systems like the AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and upgraded Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, designed to meet modern threats.
How many Arleigh Burke-class destroyers has Ingalls delivered?
Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 35 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy to date.
What was the purpose of the builder's sea trials for DDG 128?
The purpose was to test the ship’s engineering, navigation, and combat systems to certify initial operational readiness before delivery to the Navy.
Where is HII headquartered?
HII is headquartered in Virginia and operates as a leading military shipbuilder with a significant presence in Mississippi.
Who can be contacted for more information about HII?
For inquiries, Kimberly Aguillard is the contact person, reachable at (228) 355-5663 or via email at Kimberly.K.Aguillard@HII-co.com.
