By Summer Clark
PHILADELPHIA—The DDG Modernization Program presents a strategy for a comprehensive total ships systems approach that will ensure the DDG 51 Class will be an integral part of the Navy’s Sea Power 21 Plan.
DDG modernization is comprised of two efforts, forward-fit and midlife upgrade. The purpose is to leverage new construction funding to help offset non-recurring engineering costs required to upgrade the entire class. NAVSEA Philadelphia has teamed with Bath Iron Works (BIW) so that the new construction and backfit programs are working towards a common design, allowing for commonality across the DDG Class. The goal of DDG modernization is to reduce total ownership cost of the class, primarily through reduction in crew size, while migrating hull, mechanical, and electrical (HM&E) systems to open architecture (OA). The design will allow for a common user interface for all HM&E systems.
To maximize return on investment (ROI), the technology solutions proposed will be defined by the ability to eliminate watchstander workload. Manning is the largest cost driver in operating a DDG. The technologies being evaluated for workload reduction are a network upgrade to a gigabit ethernet data multiplex system (GEDMS), enhanced machinery control (MCS) and damage control systems (DCS), an embedded trainer, a digital video surveillance system (DVSS), a redesign of the integrated bridge system (IBS) controls, and installation of a wireless communication system.
Upgrading the fiber optic network to a GEDMS will bring current network technology to the DDG fleet and increase the available network bandwidth to meet requirements of DDG modernization data transmission. This change to the network will be transparent to the network user system. Total cost reductions can be realized while achieving performance and logistical enhancements. Upgrading MCS and DCS will implement multi-function workstations and distributed data acquisition and control. The multi-function workstations provide a platform for operators to interface with multiple systems, such as electric plant, propulsion, and auxiliary systems, using a common graphical user interface (GUI). Including the embedded trainer allows for more effective training by implementing realistic, physics-based machinery plant models.
The OBT supports team training scenarios, but also offers the ability for Sailors to conduct personal, individual training independently. The OBT offers further ROI by eliminating machinery operation costs, as well as the wear and tear normally caused to machinery during live plant operations. DVSS provides video surveillance throughout the ship, creating enhanced situational awareness, and in many cases eliminating the need to send a rover/investigator to unmanned spaces.
The current IBS will be upgraded to a full IBS suite that includes integration with steering and propulsion controls. Wireless communications will provide enhanced ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore transmission functionality of multiple media types (voice, data, and video). These six proposed technology solutions for backfit have synergy with new construction and are leveraging off of mature technology that is currently being used in the Fleet. Advanced galley and quality of life habitability upgrades are also included in the DDG Modernization Backfit Program.
While manning and workload reduction have been designated as the primary objectives of the DDG modernization agenda, many of the proposed technologies also offer substantial improvements in the areas of situational awareness, survivability, and decision making. The DVSS and GUI screens improve situational awareness by allowing Sailors to view the engineering plant and spaces from remote locations. The network design, use of multi-function workstations, and distributed data acquisition improves the survivability of the system by allowing all smart and/or critical users to be redundantly connected. MCS will add automation decision aids to assist the operator in determining corrective actions. The possibility of automating immediate responses to casualties, without operator input, is still under study. The chilled water system includes smart valves that execute rapid automated damage control response.
The delivery of DDG 111 is scheduled for May 2010, coinciding with the first Midlife Upgrade for a Flight I DDG that is scheduled for FY 10.