BAE Systems to modernize US Navy destroyer

UK’s arms, security, and aerospace company BAE Systems has received a $1.9 million contract from the U.S. Navy for the maintenance and modernization of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57).

The value of the competitively awarded contract could reach $101.2 million if all options are exercised, according to the company.

Under the docking selected restricted availability (DSRA) contract awarded, BAE Systems will dry-dock the ship, perform underwater hull preservation work, support the navy’s efforts to upgrade the ship’s Aegis combat system and its command and control equipment, and refurbish the living spaces for the ship’s 285 crewmembers.

The work is expected to begin in March 2022 and be completed in April 2023.

BAE Systems’ Norfolk shipyard is performing similar work aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55).

USS Mitscher is the second U.S. Navy ship named in honor of Admiral Marc Mitscher (1887-1947), who served as commander of the Fast Carrier Task Force 58 in the Pacific, which was the navy’s main striking force during the latter half of World War II.

The current ship was commissioned in December 1994.