The team of General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin announced today that it strongly supports the U.S. Navy's plan for the next generation of surface combatant ships referred to as DD(X). The Blue Team has developed technologies relevant to the DD(X) requirement and is preparing its response to the Navy's request for proposal (RFP).

DD(X) will be a technology engine that will drive a family of combatants to transform the Navy. The Navy will use the advanced technology and networking capabilities from DD(X) in the development of both the future cruiser, CG(X), and the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS). This strategy will provide a road map for the future Navy and a broader strategic framework within which transformation will occur.

"With 20 years of teaming experience, General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin are committed to the success of this family of ships, and we believe we will provide the U.S. Navy with the best technologically advanced combatant," said Tom Bowler, Bath Iron Works Vice President of Strategic Planning and Business Development. "We are convinced we can provide the transformation the Navy needs as it moves into the 21st century.

"We're excited about the approach the Navy has taken with the family of ships," added Bowler. "The enhanced commonality of the new platforms will reduce logistics and support costs, making more of the Navy's budget available for operations and personnel. So this is great news for the taxpayer."

Under the restructured program, the investment stream for force transformation will be funneled through DD(X). Therefore, technology maturation for missile defense cruisers, precision fires and the Navy's desire to develop a Littoral Combat Ship will all start with the technologies developed in DD(X).

Dr. Mike Hughes, Lockheed Martin DD(X) vice president, said the Blue Team has the technological expertise and management capability to be the Navy's best choice to develop the DD(X). "Our approach emphasizes a balance between system performance, affordability and program executability. As partners, we have a rich and lengthy history of being teammates in the design and construction of the Navy's surface combatant force," said Hughes.

Hughes pointed to Lockheed Martin's proven track record of handling complex, major programs such as the Navy's ballistic missile defense program; the Aegis weapons system program; and the systems integration project for the CVN-77 aircraft carrier.

General Dynamics has a history of leading market positions in shipbuilding and marine systems; land and amphibious combat systems; information systems; and business aviation.

Other Blue Team members include a strong group of industry teammates including: Northrop Grumman; Microsoft; SAIC; L3 Communications; IBM; Cisco; Gibbs & Cox; United Defense LP; Solipsys; Computer Sciences Corporation; Micro Analysis & Design Inc.; Aptima; Booz Allen Hamilton; Fire Risk Management; Hopeman Brothers; Metron; Sikorsky; Sippican; Rational Software; Aramark; Parametric Technology; and the University of Maine.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Naval Electronics & Surveillance Systems