NEWPORT NEWS, Va., June 18, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The nation's newest and most advanced nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), will be returning to Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) for post-delivery maintenance work, also known as the ship's post shakedown availability (PSA).
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The company's Shipbuilding sector in Newport News, Va., is the prime contractor for the work, which is valued at $72.6 million. A PSA is a typical availability in the early life of a carrier that allows the Navy and Northrop Grumman team to resolve any items that came up during trials and delivery and make any last-minute changes and upgrades.
"We have worked closely with our Navy partners during the planning period, sharing lessons learned and best practices, and are ready to begin the execution period of this contract," said Mike Shawcross, vice president for Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding's aircraft carrier construction programs. "The Shipbuilding team looks forward to continuing our close working relationship with the officers and crew aboard USS George H. W. Bush."
Work includes the installation of a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) handling system and a new fresh water purification system. Other changes include compartment reconfigurations, combat system and radar equipment upgrades, and minor repairs. The work is scheduled to last through early 2010.
Named after America's 41st president, USS George H. W. Bush is the 10th and final Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. Its keel was laid Sept. 6, 2003; it was christened Oct. 7, 2006; commissioned Jan. 10, 2009 and delivered May 11, 2009. At 1,092 feet in length, USS George H. W. Bush is nearly as long as the Empire State Building is tall. It weighs 97,000 tons and carries more than 80 combat aircraft. Its top speed exceeds 30 knots, and powered with two nuclear reactors, it operates for more than 20 years without refueling.
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.
