CG Modernization

The CG Modernization program is a line item within the Navy's Other Procurement, Navy account, specifically under the Ships Support Equipment budget activity. The primary objective of this program is to fund the modernization and maintenance of Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruisers (CGs), with a focus on sustaining their operational effectiveness and extending their service lives. This line item is critical for ensuring that these surface combatants remain capable of supporting fleet operations and meeting evolving mission requirements.

For Fiscal Year 2024, the CG Modernization line item was used to complete maintenance activities and conduct Combat Systems Ship's Qualification Trials (CSSQT) for two vessels: the USS CHOSIN (CG 65) and USS CAPE ST GEORGE (CG 71). These efforts are essential for verifying that the ships' combat systems are fully operational and meet current Navy standards after modernization work or extended maintenance periods.

The USS CHOSIN (CG 65) Modernization project focused on a range of upgrades and repairs necessary to return the ship to active service. This included hull, mechanical, and electrical repairs, as well as the integration and testing of updated combat systems. The objective was to ensure that the ship could rejoin the fleet with enhanced capabilities, improved reliability, and compliance with the latest safety and operational standards.

Similarly, the USS CAPE ST GEORGE (CG 71) Modernization effort aimed to complete the ship's maintenance and modernization package. This included upgrades to the ship's Aegis Combat System, communications, and electronic warfare suites, as well as general repairs to critical shipboard systems. The goal was to enhance the ship's warfighting readiness and extend its operational lifespan, supporting the Navy's surface combatant force structure.

The Combat Systems Ship's Qualification Trials (CSSQT) are a key component of the modernization process. CSSQT is a rigorous testing and certification process designed to ensure that all upgraded combat systems function as intended under operational conditions. Successful completion of CSSQT is required before a ship can be declared fully mission capable and returned to fleet operations. This process provides assurance to Navy leadership that the ships are ready to meet current and future mission demands.

Justification for the CG Modernization program centers on the need to maintain a robust and capable surface fleet. Ticonderoga-class cruisers play a vital role in air defense, command and control, and multi-mission operations. By investing in modernization and maintenance, the Navy ensures these ships can continue to provide critical capabilities, bridge capability gaps, and support national defense objectives until future surface combatant platforms are available.