Successful completion of trials for US Navy Flight IIA destroyer USS John Basilone.

According to information published by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works on May 24, 2024, the future USS John Basilone (DDG 122) returned from its Charlie trials.
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Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS John Basilone. (Picture source: General Dynamics)

The US Navy has initiated a comprehensive modernization program for its Flight IIA destroyers, focusing on four key upgrades. These enhancements include advancements in sensors, radars, combat systems, and cooling mechanisms. The first ships to undergo these upgrades are the USS Pinckney (DDG-91), USS James E. Williams (DDG-95), USS Chung Hoon (DDG-93), and USS Halsey (DDG-97). The upgrades aim to ensure these vessels maintain operational effectiveness against evolving threats.

The US Navy's efforts are not limited to the Flight IIA destroyers. The first Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, the future USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG-125), has completed its acceptance trials. This vessel introduces the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar, which significantly enhances detection and tracking capabilities.

The US Navy has also awarded substantial contracts for the maintenance and modernization of existing ships. A $438.5 million contract was awarded to General Dynamics for the enhancement of USS James E. Williams and USS Chung Hoon. These upgrades are expected to bolster the ships' anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities.

About the ship

Construction of the USS John Basilone began with a keel laying ceremony on January 10, 2020, at the Bath Iron Works shipyard in Bath, Maine.  The ship was launched on June 12, 2022, and was christened on June 18, 2022.