The US Navy has taken delivery of its new Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) from General Dynamics' Bath Iron Works shipyard in Maine.

The delivery follows successful completion of a wide range of at-sea and pier-side trials, which ensured the operational readiness of the DDG 115 vessel.

USS Rafael Peralta is the first Arleigh Burke-class destroyer developed at the Bath Iron Works shipyard since the programme was restarted in 2010, and the second restart vessel delivered by General Dynamics to the US Navy.

DDG 51 Programme Executive Office (PEO) Ships class programme manager captain Casey Moton said: “Arleigh Burke-class destroyers continue to provide the most critical warfighting technologies to our sailors, equipping them with the capabilities they require to meet our missions at sea.

“As the 65th Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to join the fleet, Rafael Peralta will continue the proud legacy of this class.”

The destroyer is named in honour of Sergeant Rafael Peralta, one of the most heralded marines from 2004's Battle of Fallujah.

"Arleigh Burke-class destroyers continue to provide the most critical warfighting technologies to our sailors, equipping them with the capabilities they require to meet our missions at sea."

USS Rafael Peralta is integrated with the Aegis Baseline 9 Combat System, and features an air and missile defence (IAMD) system incorporating the Ballistic Missile Defense 5.0 capability upgrade, and Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air.

The IAMD radar installed on the new ship will offer improved computing power and radar upgrades in order to enhance the vessel’s detection and reaction capabilities against modern air warfare threats.

The Aegis Baseline 9 Combat System will also enable the vessel to connect radars with other ships and aircraft allowing for the creation of a complete picture of the battle space, as well as effectively increasing the theatre space.

Commissioning of the future USS Rafael Peralta will take place in San Diego later this year.

Image: The future USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) successfully completed acceptance trials after spending two days underway off the coast of Maine, US. Photo: courtesy of US Navy photo / Released.