Military

January/February 2002 Excerpt

DD 21 Program Restructured as DD(X)

NAVY—On November 1, the Department of Defense announced a change to the acquisition strategy of the former DD 21 program. The Navy re-designated the program “DD(X)” and restructured it to produce a family of 21st century surface combatants by focusing on advanced technology development and risk mitigation using a spiral design process.

The Navy also recently issued a new request for proposal (RFP) for technology research, development, and testing of engineering development models (EDM) planned for the DD(X) program. Once the new proposals are received, the Navy will begin the evaluations needed to select a design agent in spring 2002. The RFP does not contain options for ship construction during this phase of development. A separate solicitation for the next phase of development, detailed design, and construction, is planned for FY 05.

The family of advanced surface combatants encompasses DD(X), a future cruiser (CG(X)), and a littoral combat ship (LCS). The DD(X) will provide precision strike and volume of firepower in support of land attack missions. The CG(X) will support future missile defense missions. The LCS will provide defense against future maritime threats such as mines, diesel submarines, and groups of small boats that may be used to deny access in the littorals. The DD(X) EDM focus includes development and testing of the ship’s advanced gun system, advanced radar suite, and integrated power system, among other advanced weapon and HM&E technologies.

In his announcement, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics E. C. “Pete” Aldridge stated, “the new program focus and new RFP will enable the Navy to fully leverage the great work already done by the two industry teams, continue risk mitigation measures, and permit appropriate spiral development of technology and engineering to support a range of future surface ships to meet our Nation’s maritime requirements well into the 21st Century.” The DD(X) program is intended to be the technology driver for the Surface Fleet of the 21st Century.

Carderock Division continues to provide technical support to the DD(X) program office (PMS 500). Our unique facilities and expertise in ship and ship system technologies should position us to be a major participant in supporting the technology development and risk mitigation of the DD(X) design agent.