BAE Systems wins Navy contract to modernize destroyer

The U.S. Navy has awarded BAE Systems a $107.7 million contract to modernize the guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71).

Authorities noted the extended dry-docking selected restricted availability (EDSRA) pact calls for BAE Systems to execute the modernization work at its Norfolk, Virginia shipyard – adding the agreement includes options that bring the cumulative value to $123.8 million.

“This is an important job for our employees, subcontractors, and the Navy to accomplish,” BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair Vice President and General Manager Mike Bruneau said. “We look forward to meeting the long-term maintenance goals for USS Ross to sustain the future capability and readiness of the ship.”

The BAE Systems scope of work calls for the company to dry-dock the USS Ross while delivering maintenance on the underwater hull; repairing the ship’s main propulsion system; preserving internal ballast and fuel tanks and external superstructure; and rehabilitating crew berthing and dining compartments.

The work is slated to be completed in April 2024, per authorities. Once completed, the ship will possess capabilities to serve in the fleet for another 10 years. The 16-year-old vessel recently completed a seven-year operational period in Rota, Spain, as a forward-deployed U.S. Navy combatant.

The USS Ross was commissioned in June 1997 and is named after the first Medal of Honor recipient of World War II, Donald K. Ross, authorities noted.