U.S. Navy selects BAE Systems for Zumwalt destroyer work

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- BAE Systems has received a contract worth up to $192 million to install combat systems on the U.S. Navy's new DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers.

The contract, initially valued at $10.3 million with the potential to reach $192 million, includes post-construction work for USS Zumwalt and USS Michael Monsoor. Work on the vessels is scheduled to begin in December, with officials estimating completion by September 2021.

"We're pleased with the opportunity to help prepare the Zumwalt and Michael Monsoor for initial service in the fleet," BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair manager Bob Koerber said in a press release. "We look forward to working with industry partners to install the state-of-the-art combat systems aboard these leading edge combatants and to finish other hull and engineering enhancements following their construction and delivery."

Under the contract, BAE Systems workers will install combat systems in addition to performing post-construction hull, mechanical and electrical enhancements. Work is set to be performed at the company's shipyard in San Diego.

The USS Zumwalt and USS Michael Monsoor are two of the Navy's newest warships, designed to project maritime power with state-of-the-art electronic propulsion systems and a new stealth design. Navy officials say the new vessels are nearly impossible to detect on a radar, and will be equipped with the most up-to-date weaponry.

The Zumwalt, the first vessel constructed, was launched in October 2013, and is currently undergoing sea trials.