NeonHorizon

Exploring the horizons of the maritime industry.

U.S. Navy Begins Hypersonic Missile Integration on USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002)

Written by

Oleksandr Kaiukov

in

Introduction

The U.S. Navy’s recent announcement regarding the USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002) marks a significant milestone in the integration of hypersonic missiles within the maritime industry. The USS Lyndon B. Johnson, a Zumwalt-class destroyer, is the second vessel to undergo the installation of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic missile system. This development aligns with the U.S. Navy’s strategic goals to enhance its offensive capabilities and prepare for potential future conflicts.

Integration of Hypersonic Missiles on USS Lyndon B. Johnson

Background and Significance

The USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002) has commenced its hypersonic integration process at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Pascagoula Shipyard in Mississippi. This initiative is part of the U.S. Navy’s broader effort to equip its Zumwalt-class destroyers with advanced hypersonic capabilities. The integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system on the USS Lyndon B. Johnson represents a critical step in modernizing the Navy’s surface combatants.

Technical Details and Modifications

The CPS system, designed to deliver high-speed, long-range precision strikes, will be integrated into the USS Lyndon B. Johnson through a series of modifications. The ship will receive a large missile vertical launch system, extending its combat system activation period by two years to accommodate these installations. This extended period ensures that the necessary modifications are thoroughly implemented, allowing the USS Lyndon B. Johnson to effectively deploy hypersonic missiles.

Strategic Implications

The integration of hypersonic missiles on the USS Lyndon B. Johnson is part of the U.S. Navy’s Project 33, aimed at preparing the fleet for major conflicts by 2027. The CPS system is expected to provide the Navy with the capability to penetrate air defenses and strike high-value, time-sensitive targets. This enhancement positions the Zumwalt-class destroyers as premier offensive surface combatants, equipped with advanced stealth design and long-range fires.

Timeline and Future Plans

Current Status and Upcoming Milestones

The USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000), the first ship in the class to receive the CPS system, completed its integration between January and October 2024. The USS Lyndon B. Johnson is set to be commissioned in 2027, with hypersonic installation work on the USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) scheduled to begin in 2026. The Navy plans to field the CPS missiles on all three Zumwalt-class destroyers and Block V Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines by 2029.

Testing and Deployment

The USS Zumwalt, having completed its CPS integration, is slated to test the hypersonic missiles in 2027 or 2028. This testing phase is crucial for evaluating the system’s performance and ensuring its operational readiness. The successful deployment of the CPS system on the USS Lyndon B. Johnson and other vessels will significantly enhance the U.S. Navy’s strategic capabilities, aligning with its goal of being prepared for major conflicts by 2027.

Conclusion

The integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missile system on the USS Lyndon B. Johnson represents a pivotal advancement in the U.S. Navy’s maritime capabilities. This initiative underscores the Navy’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to bolster its offensive capabilities and maintain its strategic advantage. As the USS Lyndon B. Johnson and other Zumwalt-class destroyers are equipped with hypersonic missiles, the U.S. Navy will be better positioned to address emerging threats and ensure maritime security.

Sources:

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More posts