DD(X) problems

• Designers have substituted an Advanced Induction Motor (AIM) for the planned Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) in the ship’s power system after the PMM failed in tests earlier this year. Although the AIM incorporates proven technology, it is heavier, larger, noisier and less power-dense than the PMM, requiring several changes in the ship’s design.

• The volume search portion of the dual-band radar still is encountering technical problems, although the multifunction radar has successfully completed its tests to date.

• Fire and shock testing for the composite-construction superstructure have been delayed due to questions about the materials to be used.

• The peripheral missile launch system needed to be redesigned after an “immense explosion” caused damage during tests a year ago.

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Well it doesn't seem too bad. After all they haven't even begun construction yet.

T his is not at all unusual. Many different programs over the years have been set back in the design stages due to unforseen problems. The first supersonic bomber for the Air Force the B58 hustler was one of such programs and even had problems that were never overcome ..even when the airplane was put in service. Once such problem I was told about was that the plane put out a harmonic noise when at crusing speed and certain of the UHF radio frequencys were unusable due to this noise blanking out reception at selected UHF frequencys.
New designs, New materials always bring with them new and unforseen problems to overcome. They will be overcome or they will learn to live with them or change the design.

Thanks,
Orangetom

Lots of weapons systems have had pretty troubled initial development phases and gone on to become quite successful - the B-36, the P-51, the M-16 all come to mind off the top of my head.

DDX is attempting to integrate a bunch of revolutionary new technologies at the same time, some setbacks are to be expected.

Thanks for rounding out the conversation. Yes you are correct. I had forgotten about the B36 program. From the begining to the end it was beset with problems many of which they never overcame before switching to the b47/b52 programs. The B36 too in its day was groundbreaking.

Also agree.. in the DDx program ..they are defiintely attempting to integrate many new technologies at the same time.

Thanks,
Orangetom