General Dynamics Bath Iron Works has received a new contract to construct another Arleigh Burke-class destroyer (DDG 148) for the US Navy. This latest addition raises the total number of destroyers ordered under the class to over 90, with 74 already in active service across the US and abroad.
The shipyard is currently working on two Flight IIA and five Flight III variants. Notably, the USS John Basilone (DDG 122) was commissioned in July 2024, marking a recent milestone in the program. In May, the 82nd destroyer had its keel laid in Maine, signaling continued momentum in production.
These destroyers, introduced in the 1980s, have undergone extensive upgrades. Measuring up to 510 feet, the ships are powered by four General Electric turbines producing 26,200 horsepower each, with Rolls-Royce generators adding another 5,400 horsepower. The vessels can cruise at 30 knots and cover over 4,400 nautical miles.
Designed for multi-role missions, each ship is armed with advanced sensors, missile systems, naval guns, torpedoes, and electronic warfare capabilities. Supporting up to 300 personnel, the destroyers are also equipped to carry helicopters and RHIBs, reinforcing their operational flexibility.
