Future USS Thomas Hudner completes builder’s trials

The future USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) has successfully completed four days of builder’s trials.

The DDG 51-class ships being constructed are Aegis Baseline 9 integrated air and missile defence destroyers.

Builder’s trials include a series of in-port and at-sea demonstrations that allow the shipbuilder, Bath Iron Works (BIW), and the US Navy to assess the ship’s systems and its readiness for delivery.

The future USS Thomas Hudner will return to sea to conduct acceptance trials with the navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey in the northern spring.

During acceptance trials, all systems and gears will be inspected and evaluated to ensure quality and operational readiness.

The Aegis combat system will enable DDG 116 to link radars with other ships and aircraft to provide a composite picture of the battle space.