DDG-1000

The DDG-1000 program, part of the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts, focuses on integrating the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) capability into Zumwalt-class destroyers. This initiative is prioritized by the Chief of Naval Operations to enhance the mission capabilities of the Zumwalt class. The goal is to provide a credible forward presence and deterrence, establish surface superiority, and maintain low observability in various threat environments. A key objective is ensuring seamless joint interoperability for comprehensive battlespace awareness and weapons direction.

Integrating CPS into the Zumwalt class involves significant development activities such as systems engineering, analysis, modeling, and simulation. These efforts are crucial for installing the CPS capability during each ship's first Build Yard Mod Period (BYMP). The program aims to offer a long-range strike capability that leverages the Zumwalt's low observable characteristics to complicate adversaries' targeting efforts. Additionally, modifications will be made to accommodate a CPS cold launch system similar to that used in future Virginia Payload Modules.

The strategy includes leveraging existing development efforts for CPS on Virginia-class submarines to expedite providing a surface hypersonic strike capability. This involves minimal integration solutions to rapidly deploy this capability across all three Zumwalt-class destroyers. Modernization of these ships will take place at Huntington Ingalls Industries with support from stakeholders like PEO Ships and NAVSEA organizations. The goal is full operational capability once all three ships are equipped with the CPS Weapon System and integrated into the fleet.

Key activities supporting this integration include product and software development for modernizing combat systems, extensive test and evaluation processes, and management services addressing manpower and logistics requirements. These efforts ensure that the Zumwalt class supports modernization initiatives aligned with the National Defense Strategy by fielding advanced hypersonic technologies. This program enhances U.S. conventional power projection by providing an independent forward-deployed strike platform with improved range, speed, and survivability against enemy defenses compared to current capabilities.