U.S. Navy Accepts Two Modernized Destroyers with Advanced EW Systems
The U.S. Navy accepted delivery of USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) ahead of schedule under the DDG Modernization 2.0 program. Both Arleigh Burke-class destroyers received the Northrop Grumman SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block 3 electronic attack system, a generational leap in electronic warfare. The accelerated timeline was achieved through the Navy’s new Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime office and partnerships with General Dynamics NASSCO and BAE Systems. Future upgrades will include the SPY-6(V)4 radar.
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Two U.S. destroyers get new electronic warfare suites
The U.S. Navy has completed DDG Modernization 2.0 overhauls on USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, integrating the AN/SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block III electronic warfare system. Built by Northrop Grumman, this system represents a generational leap over previous electronic warfare capabilities, featuring active electronically scanned array transmitters that can simultaneously detect and jam multiple threats. The upgrades required building massive sponsons on both sides of the superstructure. The program, managed by Capt. Tim Moore, is accelerating as the Navy expands this capability beyond the initial four conversions, with a $334 million contract modification for nine additional systems from 2028 onward. USS Pinckney (DDG 91) was the first to receive the full package.
The Defence Blog – Military and Defense NewsTwo Arleigh Burke Destroyers Receive Advanced SEWIP Block III Electronic Warfare Suites
The U.S. Navy confirmed the completion of DDG Modernization 2.0 overhauls on USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), integrating the AN/SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block III electronic warfare system. This system, built by Northrop Grumman, represents a generational leap over previous electronic warfare capabilities, featuring active electronically scanned array transmitters that can simultaneously detect and jam multiple threats across a wide range of radio frequencies. The upgrade makes these destroyers significantly harder to kill with anti-ship missiles and more capable of disrupting enemy radar and communications. The vessels belong to the Flight IIA sub-variant of the Arleigh Burke class, displacing approximately 9,200 tonnes. A March 2026 contract modification worth ~$334 million signals the Navy's intent to expand this capability beyond the initial four conversions, with nine additional systems to be delivered from 2028 onward.
The Defence Blog – Military and Defense NewsU.S. Navy Accepts Two Modernized Arleigh Burke Destroyers Ahead of Schedule
The U.S. Navy accepted delivery of two modernized Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), ahead of schedule in June 2026. The accelerated timeline was achieved through the service's new Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime office and the DDG Modernization 2.0 program. Both ships successfully completed combat system sea trials and are now the second and third vessels to receive the Northrop Grumman SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block 3 electronic attack system. The modernization effort, involving General Dynamics NASSCO and BAE Systems alongside U.S. Navy regional maintenance centers, includes a two-step process: first installing the electronic warfare package and cooling upgrades, followed later by the Raytheon SPY-6(V)4 radar. Navy Vice Admiral John Gumbleton noted that the new maintenance construct has achieved on-time delivery in 11 of 12 recent cases. The program aims to extend the service life and enhance the combat capability of Flight IIA destroyers.
Naval NewsU.S. Navy Accepts Two Modernized Destroyers Ahead of Schedule
The U.S. Navy took delivery of two modernized Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), ahead of schedule. This was achieved through accelerated acquisition, planning, and execution milestones led by the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime office. Both ships successfully completed combat system sea trials, calibrations, and shakedowns. They are the second and third ships to receive Northrop Grumman's SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block 3 electronic attack system, following USS Pinckney (DDG 91). The DDG Modernization 2.0 program focuses on mid-life capability enhancements including combat systems, radars, and electronic warfare. Future upgrades will include Raytheon's SPY-6(V)4 radar. General Dynamics NASSCO and BAE Systems collaborated with Navy regional maintenance centers to achieve the accelerated timeline. Navy officials highlighted improved collaboration between the private sector, ship crews, and government oversight as key to the program's predictability and success.
Naval NewsU.S. Navy Accepts Two Modernized Destroyers Ahead of Schedule
The U.S. Navy accepted delivery of two modernized Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), ahead of schedule under the DDG Modernization 2.0 program. This milestone was achieved through accelerated acquisition and planning led by the new Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime office. Both ships successfully completed combat system sea trials and calibrations early, becoming the second and third vessels to receive the Northrop Grumman SLQ-32(V)7 SEWIP Block 3 electronic attack system. The modernization program focuses on mid-life capability upgrades, including cooling and combat system enhancements in a two-step process, with the second step installing the SPY-6(V)4 radar. Industry partners General Dynamics NASSCO and BAE Systems collaborated with Navy maintenance centers to avoid delays that plagued earlier modernization efforts. The Navy reports significant improvements in scheduling predictability, with 11 of 12 recent overhauls completed on time.
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