Future USS Delbert D Black completes builder's trials
The US Navy’s future USS Delbert D Black (DDG 119) has successfully completed builder’s trials, the navy announced on 24 February.
Conducted by shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls Industries, the trials were carried out over three days in the Gulf of Mexico.
The vessel will now prepare for acceptance trials in March, which will be carried out by the US Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey.
Delbert D Black is configured as a Flight IIA destroyer. Designed to support power projection, forward presence and escort operations at sea in low intensity conflict/coastal and littoral offshore warfare as well as open ocean conflict, the vessel will be equipped with the Aegis Combat System.
Capt Seth Miller, DDG 51 class program manager, Program Executive Office Ships, said: ‘The navy and our dedicated shipbuilders have continued to make strides towards delivering this exceptional capability to the fleet, and performed well during builder’s trials. This ship continues the proud Aegis shipbuilding legacy and will provide the navy with a 21st century fighting edge.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027
The US Navy’s Zumwalt-class destroyer is a stealth ship originally designed to consist of a fleet of 32 but has been cut back to three. Conceived for a land-attack role, it is now being fitted with a hypersonic missile capability.
-
US Coast Guard commissions first icebreaker acquired in the last 25 years
The Cutter Storis officially entered service with the Branch on 10 August. The new capability will be operated from Juneau, Alaska.
-
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
US Coast Guard to invest more than $5 billion in the Heritage Class Offshore Patrol Cutter
From FY2026 to FY2029, the OPC programme will receive funds from the Reconciliation Bill and the Coast Guard annual budget.
-
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.