Technology Problems Persist for DD(X)

From DefenseNews

Technology Problems Persist for USN Destroyer: Report

By CHRISTOPHER P. CAVAS

Technological development for the U.S. Navy’s advanced DD(X) destroyer is still lagging despite progress in a number of areas, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) said in a report issued June 14.

The report, sent to Senate and House of Representatives Armed Services Committee leaders, highlighted problems with the 10 critical engineering areas being developed for the 14,000-ton destroyer. Packed with new technologies, the DD(X) is intended by the Navy to support forces ashore and dominate coastal regions, and is planned to replace Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in the service’s building program.

Among the problems listed in the report:

• Designers have substituted an Advanced Induction Motor (AIM) for the planned Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) in the ship’s power system after the PMM failed in tests earlier this year. Although the AIM incorporates proven technology, it is heavier, larger, noisier and less power-dense than the PMM, requiring several changes in the ship’s design.

• The volume search portion of the dual-band radar still is encountering technical problems, although the multifunction radar has successfully completed its tests to date.

• Fire and shock testing for the composite-construction superstructure have been delayed due to questions about the materials to be used.

• The peripheral missile launch system needed to be redesigned after an “immense explosion” caused damage during tests a year ago.

The GAO report provided no recommendations for the program.

Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, Pascagoula, Miss., currently is heading the DD(X) development effort, with Raytheon managing the program’s radar and combat systems. The Navy is restructuring the destroyer program and will take over management of the DD(X) project this fall.

Navy officials have described the restructuring effort as part of an overall attempt to reduce costs on the program and not due to any management issues with Northrop Grumman.