CG 66 going into modernization period

NORFOLK, Va. - After 25 years of global operations, the guided missile cruiser USS Hué City (CG 66) was inducted into the cruiser modernization program here, on the last day of FY 2019 at Norfolk Naval Base, entering a period of major overhaul, according to a Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) media release. The program shifts administrative control from Naval Surface Forces Atlantic to NAVSEA that allows the ships to undergo modernization to extend service lives and air-defense capabilities. The modernization will include the installation of the latest technological advances in combat systems and engineering, and ensuring ships remain viable throughout their service lives of 40 operational years. Hué City will undergo extensive structural, mechanical and combat systems upgrades and return to the fleet at peak technical readiness, fully equipped for the Sailors who will take her into harm’s way. “The induction of Hué City is a major milestone for the CG Mod program,” said Capt. Kevin Byrne, program manager for ship modernization. “Her upcoming overhaul will not only extend the life of this critical capability, but will help the Navy on its mission to grow the fleet and expand our war-fighting advantage.” Six of 11 cruisers have been inducted into the modernization program and are in various stages of returning to the fleet. USS Hué City is the seventh. It will be equipped with the latest technological advances in combat systems and engineering to ensure she remains war-fighting relevant through the 2030s. Hue City is the seventh. It will be equipped with the latest technological advances in combat systems and engineering to ensure she remains war-fighting relevant through the 2030s. (Source: Seapower Magazine 10/06/19) Gulf Coast Note: Nineteen of the 27 Ticonderoga class of guided missile cruisers, including Hue City, were built at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss. https://seapowermagazine.org/uss-hue-city-inducted-into-cruiser-modernization-program/