Intro
Explore the USS Halsey DDG 97, a cutting-edge Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the US Navys fleet. Learn about its advanced Aegis combat system, robust armament, and versatile capabilities, making it a formidable force in maritime defense and multi-mission operations, with its impressive speed and maneuverability.
The USS Halsey (DDG-97) is a renowned Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, named after the legendary Fleet Admiral William F. Halsey Jr., who played a crucial role in the Allied victory in World War II. Commissioned in 2005, the USS Halsey has been an integral part of the United States Navy's fleet, conducting various operations and missions worldwide.
As an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, the USS Halsey is designed to provide multi-mission capabilities, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, and anti-surface warfare. The ship's advanced Aegis Combat System enables it to detect, track, and engage multiple targets simultaneously, making it an invaluable asset to the Navy's fleet.
Design and Capabilities
The USS Halsey is 510 feet (155.4 meters) long, with a beam of 66 feet (20.1 meters) and a draft of 31 feet (9.4 meters). The ship displaces approximately 9,200 tons of water and is powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines, generating 100,000 horsepower. This propulsion system enables the USS Halsey to reach speeds of over 30 knots (56 km/h).
The USS Halsey is equipped with a range of advanced sensors, including the AN/SPY-1D phased array radar and the AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 sonar system. These sensors enable the ship to detect and track targets in all environments, from surface ships to submarines and aircraft.
Armament and Defense Systems
The USS Halsey is armed with a range of missiles and guns, including:
- 96-cell Vertical Launching System (VLS) for Tomahawk land-attack missiles and Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) and Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) air defense missiles
- 5-inch (127mm) Mk 45 Mod 4 gun
- 20mm Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS)
- Mk 32 triple torpedo tubes for Mk 50 and Mk 54 torpedoes
The ship also features advanced defense systems, including the AN/SLQ-32 Electronic Warfare System and the Mk 53 Decoy Launching System.
Operations and Deployments
Since its commissioning in 2005, the USS Halsey has participated in numerous operations and deployments, including:
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (2006)
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2008)
- Operation Unified Protector (2011)
- Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise (2012)
- Deployment to the Western Pacific (2013-2014)
During these deployments, the USS Halsey has conducted a range of missions, including maritime security operations, anti-piracy patrols, and humanitarian assistance.
Crew and Training
The USS Halsey has a crew of approximately 300 sailors, including officers, enlisted personnel, and civilians. The ship's crew undergoes rigorous training to ensure they are prepared to respond to a range of scenarios, from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.
The USS Halsey is homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and is part of the Pacific Fleet's Destroyer Squadron 31.
Upgrades and Modernization
To ensure the USS Halsey remains an effective and capable warship, the Navy has invested in various upgrades and modernization efforts, including:
- Installation of the Aegis Combat System Baseline 9 (BMD 5.0) upgrade
- Integration of the Advanced Electronic Support Measures (AESM) system
- Replacement of the ship's propulsion system with more efficient and reliable engines
These upgrades have enhanced the USS Halsey's ability to detect, track, and engage targets, while also improving its overall performance and efficiency.
Conclusion
The USS Halsey (DDG-97) is a powerful and versatile warship that has played a significant role in the United States Navy's fleet. With its advanced combat systems, robust armament, and highly trained crew, the USS Halsey is an asset to the Navy and a symbol of American military power.
As the USS Halsey continues to serve and evolve, it will remain an important part of the Navy's efforts to protect American interests and maintain global security.
USS Halsey (DDG-97) Image Gallery
What is the USS Halsey's primary mission?
+The USS Halsey's primary mission is to conduct multi-mission operations, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, and anti-surface warfare.
How long is the USS Halsey?
+The USS Halsey is 510 feet (155.4 meters) long.
What is the USS Halsey's top speed?
+The USS Halsey's top speed is over 30 knots (56 km/h).