UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
The planar array technology intended to be installed on Zumwalt-class guided missile destroyers will instead likely be fitted to future US Navy surface combatants, with systems similar to those found on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers now finding a place on the DDG 1000 series’ unique superstructure.
Providing updates to the DDG 1000 programme at the Surface Navy Association annual symposium in Washington DC, CAPT Kevin Smith, DDG 1000 programme manager, said that cost and commonality were among the reasons for this move but that it did not breach radar cross section specifications intended for the class.
‘The reason we
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Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
The presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf means additional naval and aerial capabilities, which provides the US with multiple attacking options.
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.