The US Navy’s Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cowpens (CG 63) is set to undergo a modernisation effort at Naval Base San Diego, under the CG Phased Modernization Program.
It is the first ship under the class to receive significant capability upgrades to enhance its performance in multiple mission areas.
The CG Phased Modernization Program aims to balance the navy’s long-term requirement for a carrier strike group air defence commander (ADC) platform and its future shipbuilding requirements.
US Pacific Fleet Naval Surface Force commander vice admiral Tom Rowden said: "We are saving money, preserving force structure, and generating options for leadership."
The major upgrades to the vessel will include equipping the AEGIS weapon system with naval integrated fire control-counter air (NIFC-CA) capability, SPQ-9B multipurpose radar, and electro-optical sight system.
Additional overhaul will cover integration of AN / SQQ-89A(V)-15 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) suite with multi-function towed array (MFTA), and hull mechanical and electrical (HM&E) improvements.
Rowden added: "When she returns to the fleet, she will be fully modernised and capable of meeting and defeating any threat."
On completion of the modernisation effort, Cowpens service life will be extended from 35 to 44 years and will feature a 29-year-old hull but with an advanced combat system.
As part of the CG phased modernisation programme, the USS Gettysburg (CG 64) guided-missile cruiser is also scheduled to undergo the same upgrades as Cowpens on 30 September.
Image: Cowpens was transferred from the authority of Rowden to vice-admiral William Hilarides, commander, Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). Photo: courtesy of US Navy photo by mass communication specialist 2nd Class Zachary Bell / Released.
