Navy releases funds for two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers
NewsSeptember 29, 2017
BATH, Maine. Ship maker General Dynamics Bath Iron Works has gotten the green light from the U.S. Navy to proceed with the planning and construction of two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, DDG 126 and DDG 127. DDG 126 was awarded under the contract that was part of a multiyear competition for DDG 51-class destroyers in 2013, while DDG 127 was approved by Congress under separate legislation.The contract modification fully funds the two ships.
The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is a multimission combatant vessel that offers operates in support of carrier battle groups, surface action groups, amphibious groups, and replenishment groups, carrying an array of antisubmarine, anti-air, and antisurface capabilities.
The Navy has named DDG 126 the Louis H. Wilson, Jr., after the 26th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, who was a World War II recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Guam. Four DDG 51 destroyers in production at Bath Iron Works: Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), Daniel Inouye (DDG 118), Carl M. Levin (DDG 120), and John Basilone (DDG 122).