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.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
