Navy begins modernization of guided-missile cruiser

WASHINGTON, 22 Feb. 2008. Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) recently became the first guided-missile cruiser to begin combined hull, mechanical and electrical (HM&E), and combat systems upgrades as part of the CG/DDG Modernization Program.

Twenty-two Ticonderoga-class cruisers and 62 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers will undergo modernization to ensure these warships reach their projected 35-year service life. These ships will be fitted with state-of-the-art combat systems, HM&E, and quality of life upgrades that will improve all areas of the ships' functionality.

Bunker Hill is scheduled to be in the shipyard for approximately one year. Next year, USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) and USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) will begin their HM&E and combat systems modernization. The Navy plans to have modernized all Ticonderoga-class cruisers by 2017.

Destroyer modernization will begin in 2010, marking the first time a ship class has begun a major modernization program while the remaining ships of the class are still being built.