HII has delivered the first Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, the USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), to the US Navy.
The vessel was constructed with several modifications to enhance its capability compared to the navy’s previous guided-missile ships.
Flight III technologies focus on offensive and defensive weapon systems and improved maritime warfare support to match advanced threats.
Among the upgrades the Flight III configuration features are the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar next-generation radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System.
Product of ‘Relentless’ Efforts
DDG 125’s handover followed its acceptance trials last month. The US Navy conducted a separate test for the destroyer’s combat systems in January 2022, six months after its launch.
Construction for the upgraded Arleigh Burke vessel commenced in June 2021.
“Delivering the first Flight III ship reflects the relentless efforts of our shipbuilders and those of our Navy and supplier partners,” HII Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson stated.
“We are committed to maintaining a consistent and resilient destroyer production team in order to be ready to support the Navy and our country.”
‘Historic’ Delivery
The Arleigh Burke-class fleet comprises multi-mission vehicles deployable for various military operations, such as crisis management, peacetime presence, sea control, and power projection.
“Delivery of the future USS Jack H. Lucas is an historic occasion. As the Navy’s first Flight III destroyer, DDG 125 brings the most advanced Integrated Air and Missile Defense capability to the fleet,” Arleigh Burke Destroyer Program Manager Capt. Seth Miller stated.
“I am tremendously proud of the entire Navy and industry team for delivering this ship. Build a little, test a little and learn a lot. Job well done!”
HII has delivered 35 destroyers to the US Navy to date.
Meanwhile, four additional Arleigh-Burke Flight III vessels are under construction by the company, including the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) scheduled for christening in August, the Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129), George M. Neal (DDG 131), and Sam Nunn (DDG 133).