Zumwaltclass

The Zumwalt-class is a class of multi-mission warships for the United States Navy. Originally conceived as a class of 32 destroyers, the program was later reduced to 24, and then to seven, before finally being curtailed to three ships: USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000), USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001), and USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002). The class was designed to provide forward, poised, and sustainable forces that can operate independently or as part of larger naval or joint operational groups.

Key features of the Zumwalt class include its advanced stealth design, intended to minimize radar and infrared signatures. The ships are equipped with a unique tumblehome hull shape and composite materials to reduce their detectability. Armament includes two advanced gun systems (AGS) and a vertical launching system capable of deploying a variety of missiles. The ships also feature an integrated electric propulsion system.

The development of the Zumwalt class faced significant challenges, including cost overruns and technological complexities. These issues led to the drastic reduction in the number of ships procured. Despite the program's altered scale, the three commissioned ships represent a significant advancement in naval technology and capability, focusing on land attack and presence missions in contested environments. The Zumwalt class is intended to provide a superior surface combatant for the 21st century navy.