BAE Systems to modernise USS Wasp again
For the second time in four years, Wasp is undergoing work to sustain its warfighting capability
BAE Systems has received a $197.4 million contract from the USN for drydock, maintenance and modernisation of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (pictured) at its shipyard in Norfolk, Virginia.
If all options are exercised on the contract, its cumulative value will rise to $237.7 million.
BAE Systems will begin working aboard the 843ft-long USS Wasp in February 2021 to conduct hull, tank and mechanical work.
Wasp previously underwent maintenance availability with BAE Systems from December 2016 to May 2017, when the company added modifications to support operations with the F-35.
To prepare for drydocking Wasp this time, BAE Systems sent its largest floating drydock (Titan) to a Baltimore shipyard for five months of lifecycle maintenance. This will enable the Norfolk shipyard to service the largest USN ships ‘for another 20 to 25 years’, according to the company.
Titan is capable of lifting up to 52,500 long tons, while USS Wasp displaces about 40,500 long tons. It is the first in its class of eight vessels, but Shephard Defence Insight notes that these ships will be replaced by the America class.
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