Department of War Certifies Bath Iron Works' Capacity to Build a Second Guided-Missile Destroyer
The Department of War announced on October 12 that, following a comprehensive, multi-phase due diligence review, it has determined that significant operational and managerial improvements at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) have established the capacity and stability necessary to support the potential construction of a second guided-missile destroyer (DDG).
The review evaluated production throughput, schedule adherence, quality assurance benchmarks, supply chain resilience, and workforce optimization at the Bath, Maine, shipyard. Based on verifiable performance enhancements and leadership initiatives, the Department concluded that building an additional Arleigh Burke-class (DDG 51) destroyer at BIW is feasible and strategically advantageous for the Navy's fleet, should Congress secure the necessary funding.
"Our national security requires an industrial base that can respond to demands for increased speed and volume," said Deputy Secretary of War Steve Feinberg. "After a rigorous review, Bath Iron Works has proven it has the capacity and stability to support construction of a second destroyer," he added, while cautioning that the shipyard must sustain the momentum and fully resolve legacy production challenges.
Senator Susan Collins of Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, welcomed the certification, crediting BIW's 6,800 employees and noting she has advocated for a second destroyer in this year's budget — clearing the way for the Department to order the additional ship in fiscal year 2027 if Congress provides funding.
(Source: U.S. Department of War)
Source: U.S. Department of War
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
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