The Navy intends the future destroyer to be an extension and combatant of its offensive capabilities. This ship is capable of taking on small "swarming", boats, and mines as well as diesel submarines. It could also launch various mission modules, which could be quickly switched to another mission.
The DDG (X) will draw on the lessons learned from Virginia's submarine program. New power systems and advanced electromagnetic signature reduction systems will be part of the new destroyer. It is expected that this new vessel will feature a longer-range radar with greater power and greater range. The vessel will also feature a hull section that can be lengthened to accommodate a larger payload. The new ship's armament will include ship-launched lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes, along with facilities for launching uncrewed ships.
The DDG (X) will feature an integrated power, which is an electronic propulsion system that allows the ship's weapons systems to be powered by an additional battery. The system will also provide more flexibility for upgrades in the future. A vessel's hull section is also designed to improve seakeeping. The Navy will begin preliminary design work on the new destroyer ship prior to the close of the fiscal year. This is expected to be completed by September 30.
It is estimated that the DDG(X), which will be built in between $3.5 billion to $4 billion, will cost approximately $3.5 billion to $4 billion. It will be half the height of the battle cruiser Kirov. Additionally, it will have greater weight-carrying capabilities and more space. It will also have a more advanced Aegis combat system. The Navy expects to get its DDG(X), top-level requirements, approved by December 2020.
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works will build the ship in Maine, Huntington Ingalls Industries will build it in Mississippi. The ship will be a derivative of the Arleigh Burke class. These destroyers are capable of delivering a broad range of warfighting capabilities, and they can operate in the tropics. They have a larger hangar which can accommodate manned helicopters as well as drones.
The new vessel can also launch hypersonic rockets. These missiles will be capable of destroying enemy ships at greater distances. In 2032, the first vessel of this class will enter service. The Navy has not yet determined how many ships will be in the DDG(X) class. The Navy should be able to purchase three ships each year by 2031.
The DDG(X) will also be able to carry out distributed operations throughout the Asia Pacific region. The DDG(X) will also be able conduct operations in Arctic. It is expected to have a greater cooling capacity, a simplified hull design, as well as a superior power system.
The future destroyer ship can also launch hypersonic missiles. It will also use lasers for incineration of enemy drones. This technology will dominate future discussions regarding the U.S. Navy’s directed energy weapons program.