The Navy intends the future destroyer to be an extension and combatant of its offensive capabilities. This ship is capable of taking on small "swarming", boats, and mines as well as diesel submarines. It could also launch various mission modules, which could be quickly switched to another mission.
The DDG(X), based on lessons from the Virginia submarine program, will be developed. New power systems and advanced electromagnetic signature reduction systems will be part of the new destroyer. It is expected that this new vessel will feature a longer-range radar with greater power and greater range. The vessel will also feature a hull section that can be lengthened to accommodate a larger payload. The new ship will have ship-launched lightweight antisubmarine torpedoes and facilities for launching uncrewed boats.
The DDG(X) will include an integrated power system, which is an electrical propulsion system that enables the ship to use an additional battery to provide more power for its weapons systems. It will allow for more future upgrades. A new section of the vessel's hull will be created to ensure better seakeeping. The Navy plans to enter the preliminary design stage for the new destroyer ship before the end of the fiscal year on September 30.
The DDG(X), a battle cruiser, is expected to cost between $3.5 million and $4 billion to construct. It will be half of the size of the battlecruiser Kirov, but will have more storage and weight-carrying capability. It will also have a more advanced Aegis combat system. In December 2020, the Navy will approve its highest-level requirements for DDG(X).
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works will build the ship in Maine, Huntington Ingalls Industries will build it in Mississippi. It will be a modified Arleigh Burke-class ship. These destroyers provide a wide range of warfighting capabilities and were designed to operate in the tropics. These destroyers also have a larger hangar that can hold manned helicopters and drones.
The new vessel can also launch hypersonic rockets. These missiles can be used to destroy enemy vessels at a greater distance. The first vessel in this class is expected to enter service in 2032. The Navy is yet to determine how many ships will make up the DDG(X). It is possible that the Navy could buy three ships per calendar year by 2031.
The DDG(X), which is a distributed operation unit, will be able also to operate in the Asia Pacific region. It will also be capable of operating in the Arctic. It is also expected that it will have an improved cooling capability, a streamlined design of the hull, and a stronger power system.
The future destroyer will also have the ability to launch various hypersonic weapons. It will also be capable of using lasers to eliminate enemy drones. This technology is expected to dominate future discussions about the U.S. Navy directed energy weapons program.