The delivery marks the official transfer of the destroyer from the shipbuilder to the Navy. According to the Navy, the transfer was accelerated by more than two months because of exceptional builder’s sea trials.
The sea trials tested hull, mechanical, electrical and combat systems at sea. The Navy said those activities were carried out in series during a single accelerated effort.
“Our nation’s leadership, including Secretary Hegseth and Acting Secretary Cao have been very clear—build ships faster,” said William Mahan, Performing the Duties of Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition. “Thanks to innovative collaboration between the Navy and industry, we’re doing exactly that.”
Capt. Jay Young, DDG 51 Class program manager and Deputy Portfolio Acquisition Executive, Combatants, said the ship’s condition during trials helped support the faster delivery schedule. “DDG 127 conducted an accelerated block builder’s sea trial as a result of the phenomenal coordination between the Navy and Bath Iron Works. The ship’s outstanding material condition during sea trials paved the way for accelerating ship delivery by over two months, which will allow the fleet to employ this capability even sooner,” he said.
“Accelerated delivery of the future USS Patrick Gallagher signals our ongoing commitment to urgency in shipbuilding and this momentum will carry forward as we continue to build and deliver these advanced warships to the fleet,” Young said.
To accelerate delivery, the Navy and industry team identified ways to streamline the process and increase operational value. The effort focused on ensuring complete construction and reducing the time between trial events.
“Our shipbuilders are a national strategic asset. Achievements like this aren’t possible without their incredible dedication, craftsmanship and work ethic. Our Fleet and our nation appreciate them greatly.” Mahan said.
With the accelerated delivery, the fleet will receive additional time for crew ownership. The Navy said this will allow expanded timelines for training and certification.
The ship is named in honor of Marine Corps Cpl. Patrick Gallagher, who immigrated to the United States from Ireland and joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He received the Navy Cross for heroism during the Vietnam War after jumping on and throwing an enemy grenade into a river to save fellow Marines.
Gallagher was killed in action one year later. The Navy said the delivery of DDG 127 underscores its commitment to building America’s Fleet of the Future.
The Navy said American naval power has projected strength globally for 250 years, operating forward every day of the year. It said that operational tempo requires continuous capability delivery, with the Fleet of the Future serving as its answer.