The Zumwalt-class destroyer, designated DDG 1002, arrived at Ingalls in January 2022 for combat-system installation, activation and testing. The latest award covers work supporting the Navy’s phased delivery approach.
CPS is a conventionally armed boost-glide hypersonic weapon designed to penetrate air defenses and strike high-value, time-sensitive targets. Its missile consists of a two-stage solid rocket booster and a Common Hypersonic Glide Body containing a kinetic-energy projectile warhead.
The system is the maritime counterpart to the U.S. Army’s Long Range Hypersonic Weapon. The Navy plans to deploy CPS aboard Zumwalt-class destroyers and Virginia Block V submarines.
CPS development and fielding costs have been estimated at approximately $21.5 billion, with a unit missile cost of around $90 million. The Navy’s initial requirement was put at 240 missiles, including 40 for research and development.
The research missiles had been scheduled for procurement by the end of 2025. That schedule does not establish whether those purchases were completed.
“This award reflects the Navy’s continued confidence in the Ingalls team to execute the critical system test and sea trials work essential to the Navy’s phased delivery approach,” said Brian Blanchette, president of Ingalls Shipbuilding. “Our shipbuilders are proud to help deliver DDG 1002 and prepare her for future fleet operations.”
Zumwalt-class destroyers use electric propulsion and a wave-piercing tumblehome hull with a stealth design. The class is intended for deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command-and-control missions, with the ability to incorporate new weapons and systems.
