The Future of Zumwalt-Class Destroyers: Lessons Learned and Future Implications

The U.S. Navy's Zumwalt-class destroyers are a testament to both advanced technology and significant challenges faced by modern warship design. As of my last update, the Navy had plans to procure a total of three of these ships, which were intended to be the most advanced surface combatants in the fleet. However, budget constraints and shifting priorities have resulted in no definitive plans for more Zumwalt-class destroyers beyond these three. This article will explore the current status of the Zumwalt class, future orders, and the implications for the future of warship design.

Current Status of the Zumwalt-Class Destroyers

Currently, there will be a total of three Zumwalt-class destroyers with two already complete. The third ship, which is under construction, is the final one of this class. Navy officials have stated that the construction of this third ship will be treated as a "lesson learned," and the focus will shift towards other ship classes and modernization efforts for existing vessels.

The completed vessels will undergo upgrades, including the removal of their guns and the installation of several hypersonic anti-ship missiles. These upgrades will enhance their combat effectiveness and, in the process, provide the Navy with valuable learnings into the operational use of these ships.

The Cancellation of Further Orders

While some sources suggest that the "Future Large Surface Combatant" (FLSC) Cruiser program may incorporate much of the technology from the Zumwalts, it is highly unlikely that the Navy will order more Zumwalt-class destroyers. This decision is driven by the significant expenses associated with these ships and their large size, which make them too costly to continue producing.

One commentator suggested that the Zumwalt class is a major failure and a prime example of how not to build warships. This failure can be attributed to the design philosophy used, which included letting industry design ships based on nebulous performance requirements, incorporating advanced technology to drive up costs, and reducing the crew to minimize operational expenses. Additionally, relying on Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) contracts to maintain the ships instead of organic military crews has proven to be a significant drawback.

Another critic noted that reducing the number of crew is beneficial for cost savings but may not be practical in combat situations. For example, when a ship takes a missile hit, who will patch the hole? This criticism highlights the potential vulnerabilities of relying too heavily on advanced technology and reduced manpower.

Implications for Future Warship Design

The failure of the Zumwalt-class destroyers highlights the need for better ship design philosophies that balance technological advancements with practical operational needs. The recent at-sea collisions experienced by the U.S. Navy further underscore the importance of training and adequate manpower in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of naval operations.

Meanwhile, other navies, including potential future adversaries, continue to build new generation warships with conventional design philosophies that are effective at a fraction of the cost. This emphasizes the need for the U.S. Navy to reassess its priorities and balance technological innovation with practical, cost-effective solutions.

The mindset of the Navy leadership regarding ship design has been dubbed "The John Luc Picard Effect" by some, as it reflects officers who see themselves flying a starship and thus prioritize advanced technology over practical human needs. This shift in mentality must be addressed to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of future naval designs.

In conclusion, while the Zumwalt-class destroyers have provided valuable lessons, the future of warship design will likely involve a reevaluation of these lessons, emphasizing a more balanced approach to technology, cost, and practical operational requirements.