Under the selected restricted availability contract, BAE Systems will upgrade shipboard systems to support Joint Strike Fighter flight operations. Work on the 843-foot-long vessel is scheduled to begin in August.
David M. Thomas, Jr., vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Maritime Solutions Norfolk, said, “The USS Iwo Jima availability is welcomed work for our Norfolk shipyard team.” He added, “We are very familiar with performing modernization work aboard this class of ship. We will apply the lessons learned from current and past LHD-class work done within our shipyard.”
USS Iwo Jima is the third U.S. Navy ship to carry the name, commemorating the World War II battle. The current vessel was commissioned in June 2001.
The Norfolk shipyard is also nearing completion of repairs aboard USS Wasp (LHD 1), the lead ship of its class. BAE Systems stated that its experience with LHD-class ships supports its ongoing modernization and maintenance efforts.
BAE Systems Maritime Solutions provides maintenance and modernization services to the U.S. Navy’s fleet of combatant ships. The company also offers refit and hauling services for privately owned leisure vessels and workboats, as well as fabrication services for U.S. submarine and shipbuilders.
The company operates three full-service shipyards in California, Florida and Virginia. It employs a skilled workforce and works with a broad network of suppliers and subcontractors to deliver its services.
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