BAE Systems Wins USS Kearsarge Maintenance Deal

BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair has received an $18.2 modification to a previously awarded contract for the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) fiscal 2014 planned maintenance availability.

A planned maintenance availability includes the planning and execution of depot-level maintenance, alterations and modifications that will update and improve the ship’s military and technical capabilities.

Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va., and is expected to be completed by April 2014.

Built by Ingalls Shipbuilding, Kearsarge is the flagship of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which includes the dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17). Along with the embarked Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU), the Kearsarge ARG is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR).

The warship measures 256 meters in length, 32.3 meters in beam and can sail with a top speed of 23 knots.

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Naval Today Staff, September 26, 2013; Image: US Navy