Future class of United States Navy destroyer. One of several U.S. warships in development, the DD(X) is to be preceded by the Littoral Combat Ship and followed by the CG(X) cruiser and CVNX aircraft carrier.

Originally known as the DD-21, the DD(X) program was renamed in 2004 when its acquisition program was reworked. Milestones include: formal program launch, April 2002. Preliminary design review, March 2004. Planned milestones include: lead ship authorized, March 2005. Critical design review, August 2005. Start fabrication, June 2007. First ship launched, June 2010. (Dates from GAO's September 2004 report [1].)

The DD(X) features a low radar profile and an integrated power system , which can send electricity to the electric drive motors or weapons systems, which may someday include rail guns. The DD(X) is being designed to require a smaller crew and be cheaper to operate than comparable warships.

The name and hull number of the first DD(X) have yet to be decided. USS Hayler (DD-997) was the last Spruance-class destroyer and DDG-112 is to be the last Arleigh Burke class destroyer.

External links

• http://www.ddxnationalteam.com/
• http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/dd-x.htm
• http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/dd21/
• http://www.battelle.org/navy/railguns.pdf