USS Zumwalt, US Navy’s first hypersonic warship, clears builder’s sea trials

January 22, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) has taken a decisive step toward operational service as the US Navy’s first surface combatant equipped for hypersonic strike, completing builder’s sea trials following a sweeping modernization at HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding yard in Pascagoula.

The Ingalls and navy team conducted a comprehensive series of at-sea tests following an extensive modernization availability as the navy’s first conventional prompt strike (CPS) platform.

“We have achieved a pivotal milestone with our Navy and industry partners to advance this complex modernization work that will set a precedent for the Zumwalt class,” said Brian Blanchette, Ingalls Shipbuilding president.

“I’m very proud of the team effort and their critical role to advance the U.S. Navy’s first warship with hypersonic capabilities.”

USS Zumwalt, the lead ship of her class, arrived at HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding yard in Pascagoula in August 2023 to begin a comprehensive modernization effort.

After being transferred ashore, Ingalls teams carried out extensive technology upgrades, including the integration of the CPS weapon system and the removal of the ship’s original twin 155mm advanced gun systems in favor of new missile tubes.

The destroyer was undocked in December 2024 and subsequently entered the final phase of preparations toward operational readiness.

The US Navy formally accepted delivery of USS Zumwalt in April 2020. The ship was constructed by General Dynamics’ Bath Iron Works, while Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems served as the prime contractor for the Zumwalt combat system, leading activation and integration activities for the class in both Bath, Maine, and San Diego, California.

US Navy takes delivery of lead Zumwalt-class destroyer

Vessels

Additionally, USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG 1002) is also undergoing CPS weapon system integration at Ingalls and USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001) is scheduled to receive the CPS system during a future availability.

hese ships will be capable of performing a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions while allowing Navy to evolve with new systems and missions.