The United States Navy has announced a service extension for twelve Arleigh Burke-class Flight I destroyers, pushing them beyond their anticipated 35-year service life.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro shared the decision on October 31, describing it as part of the Navy’s strategy to keep “more ready players on the field.”

Following a thorough review of each destroyer’s hull condition, combat capabilities, and maintenance needs, the Navy determined these vessels could continue in service, collectively adding 48 ship-years from 2028 to 2035. This extension reflects the Navy’s confidence in the Arleigh Burke class as a versatile and robust asset, particularly given its operational resilience in contested areas like the Red Sea.

“Extending these highly capable, well-maintained destroyers will further bolster our numbers as new construction warships join the Fleet,” Del Toro noted. “It also speaks to their enduring role in projecting power globally.” Funding for these extensions is included in the fiscal year 2026 budget proposal, aligning with the Navy’s broader shipbuilding strategy to maintain force readiness.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, supported the decision as part of the Navy’s NAVPLAN, stating, “Today’s budget constrained environment requires the Navy to make prioritised investments to keep more ready players on the field.”

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George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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Patrick
Patrick (@guest_867754)
2 hours ago

When there’s a budget there’s a way.

Last edited 2 hours ago by Patrick
FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF (@guest_867788)
46 minutes ago
Reply to  Patrick

Hmmm…doesn’t this seem to be suspiciously like the path that the RN has already trodden w/ T-23 class? It may be time for a Come to Jesus meeting w/ RN re painful lessons learned in the attempt to extend beyond the projected OOS timeline. 🤔😳

Luke Rogers
Luke Rogers (@guest_867799)
26 minutes ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

I was thinking the same, this is a T23 fiasco/spiral in the making. It’s certainly interesting watching the acceleration of atrophy in western militaries versus the belligerent nature of our politicians though.

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF (@guest_867806)
11 seconds ago
Reply to  Luke Rogers

Believe the appropriate terminology/cliche is: “clutching at straws.” 🤔😳😱

Paul
Paul (@guest_867801)
19 minutes ago
Reply to  FormerUSAF

It isn’t as big a stretch as the USAF has taken in extending the B-52:) USS Barry (DDG-52) – three years – FY28 to FY31USS John Paul Jones (DDG-53) – five years – FY28 to FY33USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54) – five years – FY29 to FY34USS Stout (DDG-55) – five years – FY29 to FY34USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) – five years – FY29 to FY34USS Laboon (DDG-58) – five years – FY30 to FY35USS Paul Hamilton (DDG-60) – five years – FY30 to FY35USS Stethem (DDG 63) – one year – FY30 to FY31USS Carney (DDG-64) – one year – FY31… Read more »

Last edited 14 minutes ago by Paul
Supportive Bloke
Supportive Bloke (@guest_867790)
44 minutes ago
Reply to  Patrick

Even USN’s budget is stretched!

Extending these has more to do with troubles with existing build schedules.

I foresee a few issues with this as these are very old very hard used hulls.

FormerUSAF
FormerUSAF (@guest_867795)
37 minutes ago

Exactly, and if this becomes a failed venture, it will be duly noted by ally and foe alike.

ABCRodney
ABCRodney (@guest_867797)
28 minutes ago

It’s a grey bleekit day in the UK ! So SB just look on the bright side, the US has even more issues with replacing ships than we do, which is a good outcome for the UK ! If they have half the snags and extra work needed than we have had with Life extensions then it’s more profitable work for BAe US. Which as they seem to be hoovering up refit work means BAe share price and pensions both benefit (and we pay more Tax to U.K PLC). There it’s good to share a bit of joy the day… Read more »

Paul
Paul (@guest_867802)
14 minutes ago
Reply to  ABCRodney

Actually four Flight Is had already been extended back in 2023 for 5 years, DDG 51, 57, 61, and 69. They must be dong well enough to give the USN the confidence to move forward with the other 12 extensions.