On May 23, the future USS John Basilone (DDG-122) marked a significant milestone as it completed its final round of Navy acceptance trials, paving the way for its imminent delivery to the U.S. Navy.

This guided-missile destroyer, constructed by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW), is poised to join the Navy’s fleet as a formidable asset, showcasing the advanced capabilities of Arleigh Burke-class Flight IIA destroyers.

During the rigorous acceptance trials in the Atlantic, the BIW crew demonstrated that the ship’s hull, mechanical, and electrical systems perform as expected. The onboard INSURV team, the Navy Board of Inspection and Survey, validated the operational readiness of the ship’s systems before the official handover to the Navy.

“The INSURV team determines whether the ship’s systems are operational prior to the Navy taking delivery,” a statement from BIW emphasized, underscoring the significance of these trials in ensuring the destroyer’s operational excellence.

The John Basilone (DDG-122) honors Marine Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone, a revered war hero who received the Medal of Honor for his valor during the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II.

His legacy continues beyond his heroic actions and ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945; he was previously the namesake of the Gearing-class destroyer USS Basilone (DD-824), decommissioned in 1977. His memory lives on in the steel and spirit of this modern destroyer, echoing his bravery and commitment to service.

This vessel represents one of the last Flight IIA configurations to be equipped with the AN/SPY-1D(v) air search radars before the Navy transitions to the more advanced Flight III destroyers, which will incorporate the AN/SPY-6 air and missile defense radar.

As technology evolves, the Navy remains committed to upgrading its fleet to maintain superiority in maritime defense.

The christening of Navy ships follows a rich tradition, as outlined by a Congressional Research Service report. Names are chosen and announced by the Secretary of the Navy, following presidential direction and congressional rules. While naming conventions have evolved, with some exceptions, destroyers are traditionally named for deceased members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, including Secretaries of the Navy.

The commissioning of the John Basilone (DDG-122) is set for later this year, marking the culmination of a multi-year contract between the Navy, BIW, and HII Ingalls Shipbuilding.

Alongside the Basilone, BIW continues to work on other Flight IIA and III destroyers, including the Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG-124) and Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), among others.

In preparation for its service, the USS John Basilone DDG-122 has fostered ties with the community, as noted by CDR Carne Livingston, CO of the USS John Basilone.

Crew members visited Raritan, NJ, for the John Basilone parade, engaging with the Basilone Memorial Foundation, the Basilone Parade committee, USMC counterparts, and the local community, demonstrating the ship’s broader significance beyond its military role.

As this formidable vessel readies for commissioning, its storied name carries the legacy of courage and sacrifice, embodying the Navy’s commitment to protecting the nation’s interests at sea.

The future USS John Basilone (DDG-122) is not just a ship; it’s a symbol of American valor, set to sail the seas as a testament to the enduring spirit of its namesake and the brave men and women who serve.

Relevant articles:
– Destroyer John Basilone Completes Acceptance Trials, USNI News
– Report to Congress on Navy Ship Names, USNI News
– 122 – USS Basilone DDE/DD 824, ussbasilone.org
– Future USS Carl Levin Successfully Completes Acceptance Trials, Seapower