BAE Systems to modernize U.S. Navy cruiser

March 16 (UPI) -- BAE Systems is to modernize the USS Vicksburg, a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser, beginning in April, the company said.

The U.S. Navy's special selected restricted availability contract, or SSRA, carries a value of as much as $45.9 million if all options are exercised.

"The Vicksburg is our second SSRA under the long-term cruiser mod program," said Dave Thomas, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, said in a press release. "Our team recently completed similar work onboard the Gettysburg, which is now ready for the next phase of modernization next year and continued service in the fleet afterwards.

"This SSRA contract provides important work for our shipyard team, particularly for our skilled employees and their work with aluminum structures aboard Navy ships."

Under the award, BAE Systems will perform ship alternations and miscellaneous repairs, including the replacement of critical aluminum structures.

Work on the USS Vicksburg is expected to be completed this September.