The US Department of War has certified Bath Iron Works (BIW) as capable of building an additional destroyer for the US Navy, following a review of the shipyard’s production capacity and ongoing workload.
The decision follows assessments and visits to the Maine-based shipyard to verify that it can take on another ship while continuing work on its existing orders, according to Senator Susan Collins, who advocated for funding for a second destroyer in this year’s budget.
BIW, a General Dynamics shipyard, builds Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers for the US Navy. BIW President Charles F. Krugh welcomed the announcement and said the assessment recognizes improvements in the shipyard’s construction processes, production schedules and workforce stability. He added that these changes are helping the company accelerate ship deliveries to the navy.
“This announcement recognizes BIW’s unprecedented improvements in our build process, our production schedule and the stability and skill of our shipbuilders,” said Krugh.
The certification comes as the US Navy seeks to expand its fleet of surface combatants amid China’s continued naval expansion. The U.S. has also considered using overseas shipyards to help address its shipbuilding capacity requirements.
Collins said she would continue advocating for resources to support the shipyard and meet the navy’s requirements.
“At a time when our nation urgently needs more surface combatants and is even looking to shipyards overseas, this American shipyard is answering that call, delivering each destroyer to the Navy faster than the last. The announcement makes it clear that we are succeeding in our efforts to improve shipbuilding and that is leading to more work – which is good for the business and good for each and every one of us who works here,” Krugh added.
The shipyard is investing in its facilities. According to BIW, projects include a new Kitting Terminal, a Pier Support Center, a Trades Storage Building, security facilities and pier reconstruction. Its modernization efforts are intended to improve material preparation and delivery processes and working conditions for shipbuilders.
Meanwhile, BIW received a US Navy contract in August 2023 for the design and construction of three Arleigh Burke-class destroyers under the fiscal year 2023–2027 multiyear procurement program. The contract also included options for additional ships, subject to authorization and appropriations, giving the navy flexibility to increase production. This year, BIW also secured a contract to build another Arleigh Burke-class destroyer for the US Navy, which will be named after retired Navy Hospital Corpsman Third Class Robert R. Ingram.