Introduction to USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117
The USS Paul Ignatius (DDG-117) is a United States Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, named after the late Paul Ignatius, who served as the Secretary of the Navy from 1967 to 1969. This vessel is an integral part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet, showcasing cutting-edge technology and advanced capabilities. Here are five key facts about the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117.
Design and Construction
The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 was built by Huntington Ingalls Industries at its Ingalls Shipbuilding division in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The ship’s design is based on the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, a class of destroyers that has been the backbone of the U.S. Navy’s surface fleet for over three decades. The vessel’s construction involved the use of advanced materials and technologies to minimize its radar cross-section and reduce its visibility in combat situations.
Advanced Capabilities
The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, a sophisticated combat management system that enables the ship to engage multiple targets simultaneously. The ship is also armed with the Vertical Launch System (VLS), which allows it to launch a variety of missiles, including the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk land-attack missile. Additionally, the ship is equipped with the AN/SPY-6(V) air and missile defense radar system, which provides advanced radar capabilities for air and missile defense.
Crew and Operations
The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 has a crew of approximately 300 personnel, including officers, enlisted sailors, and civilians. The ship is designed to operate independently or as part of a carrier strike group or amphibious assault group. The ship’s crew is trained to conduct a variety of missions, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare.
Commissioning and Deployment
The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 was commissioned on July 27, 2019, at Port Everglades, Florida. The ship’s first deployment was in 2020, when it participated in a NATO-led exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. The ship has since conducted several deployments, including a deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Additional Facts
- The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 is powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines, which provide a combined output of 100,000 horsepower.
- The ship has a length of 509 feet (155 meters) and a beam of 59 feet (18 meters).
- The ship’s top speed is over 30 knots (56 km/h).
- The ship is equipped with two Mk 45 5-inch guns, as well as a variety of smaller-caliber guns and machine guns.
🚢 Note: The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 is an operational ship, and its status and activities may change over time.
In conclusion, the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 is a state-of-the-art destroyer that showcases the advanced capabilities of the U.S. Navy. With its sophisticated combat management system, advanced radar capabilities, and powerful armament, the ship is an integral part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet and plays a critical role in maintaining national security.
What is the primary mission of the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117?
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The primary mission of the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 is to conduct air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare operations in support of U.S. national security objectives.
What is the Aegis Combat System?
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The Aegis Combat System is a sophisticated combat management system that enables the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 to engage multiple targets simultaneously. It integrates radar, command and control, and missile guidance systems to provide advanced air and missile defense capabilities.
What is the crew size of the USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117?
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The USS Paul Ignatius DDG 117 has a crew of approximately 300 personnel, including officers, enlisted sailors, and civilians.
