In response to growing tensions with China, the U.S. Navy plans to extend the service life of its Arleigh-Burke Class (DDG 51) Flight I Destroyers to tackle the problem of fleet expansion.
The 12 destroyers will operate beyond their 35-year expected operational life.
The decision was made after inspecting the ships’ hulls, material conditions, combat abilities, technical feasibilities, and lifecycle maintenance. It means an extra 48 years of ship service life between 2028...