- BAE Systems has been awarded a contract by the US Navy for the repair and modernization of USS Boxer.
- USS Boxer will undergo a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) for critical maintenance and upgrades.
- The maintenance period is crucial for USS Boxer's long-term deployment and operational capability.
- BAE Systems' facilities in San Diego will support this modernization effort.
BAE Systems has secured a $149.80 million (approximately HK$1,168 million) contract from the US Navy to repair and modernize the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer. The ship, with a full load displacement of approximately 40,500 tons, is among the largest conventional surface combatants in the US Navy's fleet. The firm-fixed-price contract could increase to around $180 million (approximately HK$1,404 million) if all Navy options are exercised.
The entire project will be carried out at the Naval Base San Diego.
USS Boxer Repair and Upgrade
USS Boxer, hull number LHD 4, will enter a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA), allowing the crew and contractors to perform necessary repairs and upgrades before the ship returns to operational duties. Commissioned in 1995, USS Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship with an overall length of 844 feet. The ship provides a maritime platform for the Marine Corps, helicopters, and advanced fighter aircraft. With its expansive flight deck, it can support both amphibious operations and aviation missions, and is capable of operating F-35B Lightning II jets, playing an increasingly important role in the Marine Corps' modernization efforts.
Due to its prolonged deployments and maritime operations, USS Boxer's onboard systems face continuous wear and tear, making the maintenance period particularly critical. BAE Systems will oversee this modernization and repair work through its Maritime Solutions division in San Diego. Eric Icke, Vice President and General Manager of the division, stated that the project will support the Navy's continued mission fulfillment. Icke noted, "Performing critical repairs on USS Boxer will support the US Navy's vital mission of defending the nation."
The Importance of the Maintenance Period
The Selected Restricted Availability provides the Navy with a predetermined time window to conduct major maintenance and modernization, which can include repairs to propulsion systems, electrical systems, and combat-related systems. While BAE Systems has not disclosed the full list of upgrades for USS Boxer, the project scope includes critical maintenance, repairs, and modernization work. The project will be carried out in San Diego, where the company has its main ship repair facilities. Maintaining a 40,500-ton amphibious assault ship in a state of constant readiness for deployment requires substantial industrial support; USS Boxer integrates complex aviation, command, and amphibious systems, and the project also necessitates specialized shore-based infrastructure.
BAE Systems operates three full-service shipyards in California, Florida, and Virginia, providing dry docks, ship lift facilities, slipways, and berthing support for US Navy and government vessels. The $149.80 million (approximately HK$1,168 million) contract awards BAE Systems a significant portion of the related work; if additional options are exercised, the total project value could increase by over $30 million (approximately HK$234 million). For the Navy, this project represents another investment in maintaining its current fleet — new ship design and construction take years, making maintenance and upkeep a necessary component of preserving available combat power.
Upon completion of the project, USS Boxer will be able to continue its future operational missions from San Diego.
Item Specification Contract Amount (Base) US$149.80 (approximately HK$1,168 million) Contract Amount (with all options) Approximately US$180 million (approximately HK$1,404 million) Additional Amount from Options Over US$30 million (approximately HK$234 million) Ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) Class Wasp-class Amphibious Assault Ship Year Commissioned 1995 Overall Length 844 feet Full Load Displacement Approximately 40,500 tons Compatible Aircraft F-35B Lightning II and others Maintenance Period Category Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) Location of Work US Naval Base San Diego Contractor BAE Systems Maritime Solutions BAE Systems Shipyard Locations California, Florida, Virginia
Key Investment in Maintaining Naval Power
BAE Systems' contract is not just about repairing USS Boxer; it is a significant investment by the US Navy in maintaining the combat readiness of its current fleet. As ships age, regular maintenance and modernization become essential to ensure operational capability. As a large amphibious assault ship, USS Boxer undertakes multiple missions, making the scheduling of its maintenance period particularly crucial. Through this project, BAE Systems can extend the ship's service life and enhance its effectiveness in future operations, ensuring the Navy can continue to fulfill its defense missions.