SECNAV Extends Service Life of 12 Destroyers: Boosting Our Naval Arsenal

WASHINGTON – In a strategic move to strengthen the U.S. naval presence, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro disclosed on October 31 the Navy’s intention to extend the operational life of 12 Arleigh Burke class (DDG 51) Flight I Destroyers beyond their anticipated 35-year lifespan.

This decision emerged from an exhaustive assessment of each ship’s material state, combat readiness, and maintenance needs. As a result, the Navy anticipates an additional 48 cumulative service years for these vessels between 2028 and 2035. Crucially, the Navy has included funding for the destroyers’ service life extension in its Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal and plans to adjust its shipbuilding agenda accordingly.

“These well-maintained destroyers lend significant strength to our fleet as we integrate newly constructed warships,” stated Secretary Del Toro. “Their sustained service underscores their vital role in global power projection, defense against missile and drone threats, and strategic operations, most notably in the Red Sea region.”

Del Toro revealed that a comprehensive ten-month evaluation of each DDG-51 Flight I ship (spanning DDG 51-71) confirmed the feasibility of extending their operational life. The review assessed the optimal service duration for each ship, balancing operational capacity against the financial demands of future maintenance.

Aligning with Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s NAVPLAN, this initiative strives to expand naval readiness. Franchetti emphasized, “In today’s budget-constrained landscape, the Navy must strategically invest to enhance our operational capabilities. Our goal is to maintain a formidable Battle Force Inventory that supports America’s global peace initiatives and secures a decisive victory in conflict scenarios.”

The Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer, a cornerstone of naval operations, has consistently demonstrated superior performance in high-stakes environments, including the Red Sea.