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Key takeaways
- BAE Systems has secured a contract worth up to 180 million dollars (154.5 million euros) for the modernisation of the USS Boxer.
- Technical repairs at the naval base in San Diego will safeguard crucial national defence capabilities.
- This versatile amphibious assault ship supports stealth fighter aircraft and humanitarian missions.
BAE Systems has secured a contract from the US Navy to carry out essential maintenance, repairs and modernisation work on the USS Boxer (LHD 4).
‘Selected Restricted Availability’ programme
The contract, which initially had a fixed price of 149.8 million dollars, can rise to 180 million dollars if all contractual options are exercised. These tasks, carried out under the ‘Selected Restricted Availability’ programme, will be performed at the San Diego naval base.
BAE Systems
Eric Icke, who heads BAE Systems Maritime Solutions in San Diego, stressed that these crucial upgrades are essential for the Navy to maintain its national defence capabilities. He expressed his confidence in his team’s ability to deliver superior precision and technical performance throughout the project.
This assignment is part of a broader range of services offered by BAE Systems, which carries out overhauls, conversion projects and repairs for commercial entities, government agencies and the Navy through its network of shipyards in Virginia, Florida and California.
USS Boxer
The ship undergoing these upgrades, the USS Boxer, is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship that entered service in 1995. This 40,500-ton vessel, based in San Diego, is 257 metres long and accommodates a crew of 1,200 and more than 2,000 Marines. It serves as a versatile platform for amphibious combat operations and can deploy ground troops and equipment via a purpose-built well deck.
Small aircraft carrier
In addition, the Boxer has aviation capabilities comparable to those of a small aircraft carrier. Its expansive flight deck can accommodate various types of aircraft, including F-35B stealth fighters, MV-22 Ospreys and helicopters. Besides its primary military role in transporting and supporting Marines, the ship is also deployed for expeditionary tasks, such as disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. (fc)
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