SECNAV Unveils the Navy’s Cutting-Edge Guided Missile Destroyer DDG 145

NEW YORK – In an announcement made from the historic decks of the USS Intrepid, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro revealed the name of the Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class Guided Missile Destroyer, the future USS Intrepid (DDG 145). This significant ceremony took place aboard the former aircraft carrier, now preserved as the Intrepid Museum in New York City.

DDG 145 will be the fifth ship to carry the name Intrepid, honoring the legacy of its predecessors. “Standing aboard the fourth vessel to bear this name, we continue to draw inspiration from the courage and resilience that define the U.S. Navy,” Del Toro remarked. He expressed pride in this new ship, which will extend the legacy of its namesakes and support U.S. sailors across the globe.

The historical significance of the Intrepid name dates back to 1803, when the first ship was captured from Tripoli. It played a critical role in setting fire to the captured USS Philadelphia the following year. Subsequently, each Intrepid vessel has made unique contributions, ranging from an experimental steam torpedo ram to an aircraft carrier that served from 1943 to 1974, reputed for its involvement in major World War II battles and space missions.

In a related announcement, Del Toro named Mrs. Betty Del Toro as the sponsor of the future USS Intrepid (DDG 145). Mrs. Del Toro, a lifelong supporter of the Navy and a former military spouse, expressed her honor in this role and affirmed her dedication to supporting Navy personnel and their families.

The new Intrepid, equipped with the Aegis Combat System, represents the core of the Navy’s surface fleet. These destroyers possess cutting-edge stealth technology, providing multifaceted capabilities in various domains. Their strategic function is essential for national security, reflecting America’s commitment to ensuring global peace and prosperity.