U.S Navy Increases Service Life Of 12 Arleigh-Burke Class Destroyers To Counter China

In response to growing tensions with China, the U.S. Navy plans to extend the service life of its Arleigh-Burke Class (DDG 51) Flight I Destroyers to tackle the problem of fleet expansion.

The 12 destroyers will operate beyond their 35-year expected operational life.

The decision was made after inspecting the ships’ hulls, material conditions, combat abilities, technical feasibilities, and lifecycle maintenance. It means an extra 48 years of ship service life between 2028 and 2035.

The U.S. Navy has also proposed funding for extending the lifespan of these ships in the FY26 budget request.

U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro said that extending the life of these advanced destroyers will enhance the size and strength of the naval fleet, as more new ships will join it in future.

It will also allow the Navy to project its power in international waters, especially in the Red Sea, and defend itself and its allies from enemy attacks on their vessels.

All these destroyers first entered into operation between 1991-1997. They had also undergone thorough inspection in the last ten months.

The final estimation of each destroyer’s service life was based on maximising the service life of each ship before it needed another extensive and costly docking availability.

Per the Chief of Naval Operations, Lisa Franchetti, the idea to extend the life of the 12 naval destroyers is related to her NAVPLAN, which is about the Navy getting more and more players on the field when required amidst budget constraints.

She also said that the Navy is pushing hard to increase its battle force inventory to support the interests of the United States and maintain peace.

The U.S. Navy has not revealed which 12 of the 21 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers will have their service life extended, nor if there are similar plans for Flight II and IIA ships in the class.

Vessels in Flight III of the class began to be constructed in 2018, and more were ordered the following year and in 2023.

References: National Interest, Shepherd Media

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