USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) has successfully completed builder’s sea trials, marking an important step in the US Navy’s efforts to upgrade the destroyer with new strike capabilities.

HII said its Ingalls Shipbuilding division, working alongside the US Navy, carried out a series of at-sea tests after completing an extensive modernisation programme.

The upgrade is intended to make USS Zumwalt the Navy’s first platform for the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapon system.

The company stated that the trials represents a key step in advancing the complex upgrade programme for the Zumwalt class.

USS Zumwalt, the first of the three Zumwalt-class destroyers, arrived at Ingalls’ Pascagoula shipyard in August 2023 to begin the modernisation process.

Shortly after its arrival, the ship was moved onto land to allow shipbuilders to carry out major technology upgrades.

These included the integration of the CPS weapon system and the removal of the original twin 155 mm Advanced Gun Systems, which were replaced with new missile tubes.

In December 2024, USS Zumwalt was undocked and underwent further preparations to return the ship to operational readiness before beginning sea trials.

Work is also continuing on the other Zumwalt-class ships. USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG 1002) is currently undergoing CPS weapon system integration at Ingalls Shipbuilding, while USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001) is scheduled to receive the same system during a future maintenance period.

The Zumwalt class features an advanced electric propulsion system, a wave-piercing tumblehome hull and a stealth-focused design.

The US Navy has described the class as incorporating some of its most advanced warfighting technologies and weapons.

According to the US Navy, the ships are equipped with advanced warfighting technology and are designed to carry out missions such as deterrence, power projection, sea control and command and control, while remaining adaptable for future systems and roles.

Reference: HII