BAE Systems has won a $123 million contract to upgrade C2 kit and other systems on U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman.
The total value of works to be carried out to the 9,200-ton Arleigh Burke-class warship could rise to a maximum of $139 million if all options are exercised, as per a BAE Systems press statement.
The works will begin in February next year at the firm’s facility in Norfolk, Virginia. Some elements will concentrate on sub-surface hull preservation; other scheduled improvements include upgrades to the ship’s command-and-control (C2) systems and its engineering facilities.
The 48th Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer, USS Forrest Sherman was first commissioned back at the start of 2006. She is expected to be ready to return to active service duties in early 2027.
Vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Maritime Solutions Norfolk David M. Thomas, Jr. commented: “The modernisation of USS Forrest Sherman will be a major project for our team, building upon our recent DMP work.”
He added: “More importantly, our work will ensure that the Forrest Sherman is fit to provide a high level of service in the fleet for many years.”
As per the company’s statement, its Norfolk shipyard is currently working on five Navy and commercially operated vessels; it also completed a similar Navy Depot Modernization Period (DMP) mid-life upgrade contract for another USN destroyer, USS Nitze, in June 2024.
- You can read more details on the BAE Systems website