According to the information presented, the BBG(X) ships are designed to act as a central command node within surface forces while retaining strike capabilities. This represents a departure from the historical role of Iowa-class battleships, which were limited to attacking designated targets.
The presentation also detailed the planned armament, including 128 MK-41 vertical launch system cells, 12 Conventional Prompt Strike missiles, two laser systems rated at 300 kW or 600 kW, and a 32-megajoule electromagnetic railgun firing high-velocity projectiles. The MK-41 launchers are to be arranged in three blocks, with the largest located aft above the helicopter hangar and additional blocks amidships and on the bow.
In terms of size, the BBG(X) ships are expected to be surpassed only by Nimitz- and Ford-class aircraft carriers. They are planned to be about 260 metres long and 33 metres wide, with a displacement exceeding 35,000 tonnes and a maximum speed of more than 30 knots.
The propulsion system has not yet been disclosed, but it will need to deliver substantial power. This requirement reflects the ship’s size as well as the energy demands of its weapons, sensors, and advanced communications systems.
