$22,000,000,000 Wasted? The Navy Has a Plan to Save the Zumwalt-Class Stealth Destroyer

The US Navy's troubled Zumwalt-class destroyers are being revitalized with the integration of Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic missiles, transforming them into powerful long-range strike platforms. The original class of 32 ships was cut to just three after its Advanced Gun System failed due to exorbitant costs. Now, these stealthy, $8 billion warships are having their defunct guns replaced with vertical launch tubes for hypersonic weapons. This upgrade will dramatically increase their strike range from a mere 63 miles to over 1,700 miles, making the Zumwalts relevant and formidable assets for deterring adversaries like China in the 21st century.

Key Points and Summary: The U.S. Navy plans to salvage the troubled Zumwalt-class destroyers by basing them in Hawaii and arming them with Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic missiles by 2030. The Pivot: After the 155mm Advanced Gun System failed (with ammo costing $800,000 per round), the Navy is refitting the ships to launch Mach … Continue reading $22,000,000,000 Wasted? The Navy Has a Plan to Save the Zumwalt-Class Stealth Destroyer