Future Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer (Flight III configuration) successfully launched at Huntington Ingalls Industries, Ingalls Shipbuilding division, June 4. (Huntington Ingalls Industries)
PASCAGOULA, Miss. (Tribune News Service) — Ingalls Shipbuilding recently reached a significant milestone with the Aegis light-off on the U.S. Navy’s first Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125).
The light-off milestone marks the start of combat system testing as shipbuilders prepare the ship for propulsion tests and, eventually, sea trials.
“I am again very proud of our DDG 51 team and the work they have done,” said Ingalls president Kari Wilkinson. “Not only have they completed a significant program milestone aboard the first Flight III destroyer, but they have done so in the face of a pandemic. This team continues to prove it’s as strong as the ships it builds.”
The Flight III upgrade incorporates a number of design modifications that collectively provide significantly enhanced capability. Aegis light-off is an important milestone for integrating and activating all of the new electric plant equipment and combat systems.
“Through perseverance, a good plan, execution of that plan and relentless follow up, our shipbuilders have reached ALO,” said Jeff J. Davis, construction manager for DDG 125. “There is a huge collaboration effort between Ingalls, the Navy, industry partners and multiple other contractors.”
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