DDG-51

The DDG-51 Program is a major line item in the Department of the Navy's Shipbuilding and Conversion budget, focused on the procurement of Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers. The primary objective of this program is to deliver multi-mission surface combatants capable of operating independently or as part of Carrier Strike Groups, Surface Action Groups, and in support of Marine Amphibious Task Forces. These ships are designed to address multi-threat environments, including air, surface, and subsurface threats. They also support power projection, forward presence, and escort operations in both open ocean and littoral zones.

For FY 2026, the Navy requests funding to procure two DDG-51 destroyers. The requested funds support the contract award for two ships, including all associated planning, construction, outfitting, and post-delivery activities. The procurement strategy leverages multi-year procurement contracts and Economic Order Quantity purchases to achieve cost savings and maintain a stable industrial base, with Bath Iron Works and Huntington Ingalls Industries as the primary shipbuilders.

The DDG-51 Flight III configuration represents a significant technological advancement, incorporating the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar to enhance integrated air and missile defense capabilities. Starting in FY22, the program also includes the AN/SLQ-32(V)7 Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program Block 3, which provides advanced electronic attack capabilities to counter evolving anti-ship missile threats. Additional upgrades include the MK38 Mod 4 Gun Weapon System, the WSN-12 navigation system, expanded berthing, and the Next-Generation Surface Search Radar.

The major ship components funded under this line item include a range of advanced combat and support systems. These include the AEGIS Weapon System, AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar, Vertical Launch System MK 41, MK 45 Lightweight Gun, Tactical Tomahawk Weapon Control System, Phalanx Close-In Weapon System, and the SPQ-9B Radar. Each system is procured through a combination of competitive and sole-source contracts, with major defense contractors providing key subsystems.

The electronics suite for each ship includes the SQQ-89 Anti-Submarine Warfare system, Cooperative Engagement Capability, Exterior Communication System, Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System, and identification and navigation aids such as AN/UPX-29(V) IFF and TACAN. These systems are essential for networked operations, situational awareness, and survivability in contested environments. The program also funds hull, mechanical, and electrical systems, including the Machinery Control System, Integrated Bridge Navigation System, and cyber defense components.

The procurement approach emphasizes advance procurement and Economic Order Quantity strategies to reduce unit costs and ensure timely delivery of critical components. Advance procurement funds are used for long-lead items such as the Commercial Broadband Satellite Program and Navy Multiband Terminal, which provide resilient, secure communications for naval operations. The program's acquisition strategy is structured to maximize savings through multi-year contracts and bulk purchases, while also supporting supplier base stability and shipyard infrastructure improvements.