US-based Bird-Johnson Propellers has secured an order to provide propellers for the US Navy’s 100th DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyer.
The Fairbanks Morse Defense subsidiary has been the only supplier of controllable pitch propeller (CPP) systems for the DDG-51 since the start of the programme. It received its maiden contract for the Arleigh Burke programme 40 years ago.
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Bird-Johnson’s CPP systems feature custom blade designs tailored to speed, performance, and noise requirements, with the added capability of underwater blade replacement.
They are capable of providing thrust needed for the 9,000-tonne destroyer to operate at both standard and high speeds in various naval missions.
The systems are available for both standard speeds under 30 knots and high speeds above 30 knots.
Bird-Johnson’s personnel in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and Walpole, Massachusetts, will be responsible for delivering the new equipment to the 100th destroyer.
They will also manage lifecycle services, including technical assistance onsite, around-the-clock aftermarket support, and expedited maintenance through the Pit-Stop Programme.
Bird-Johnson Propellers power and propulsion president Dan Rediger said: “We are honoured to power the US Navy’s flagship destroyer. Receiving the propeller order for the 100th DDG-51 ship is a profound moment for our company.
“Our controllable pitch propeller system has been a cornerstone of the DDG program’s success, and its proven performance has shaped propulsion designs across the fleet.”
Besides DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, Bird-Johnson’s propeller systems have become standard on additional US Navy platforms, such as the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships and America-class amphibious assault ships.
DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are multi-mission warships capable of anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare. They may operate individually or as part of carrier, surface action, or expeditionary strike groups.
The destroyers are equipped with the MK-41 Vertical Launching System and Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense, supporting a range of naval missions.
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