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Pascagoula Today
By the People, for the People
HII Launches Guided Missile Destroyer George M. Neal
The new Arleigh Burke-class destroyer will feature advanced radar and combat systems.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:35pm
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The launch of the guided missile destroyer USS George M. Neal marks a significant milestone in the U.S. Navy's ongoing modernization of its surface fleet.Pascagoula TodayHII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division has successfully launched the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer. The launch marks a major construction milestone for the ship, which will be the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer built at the Ingalls shipyard.
Why it matters
The Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are a critical part of the U.S. Navy's surface fleet, providing advanced air defense, surface warfare, and deterrence capabilities. The Flight III upgrades, including the new AN/SPY-6 radar system and Aegis Baseline 10 combat system, will enhance the ship's ability to counter modern threats.
The details
In the weeks leading up to the launch, Ingalls shipbuilders completed key construction work, secured major components, and performed inspections to ensure the ship was ready to enter the water. The ship was then translated from land into the dry dock, where teams conducted final checks before flooding the dock and allowing the destroyer to float for the first time.
- On April 1, 2026, HII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division launched the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131).
The players
HII
HII is a global aerospace and defense technologies provider, and the parent company of Ingalls Shipbuilding.
Ingalls Shipbuilding
Ingalls Shipbuilding is a division of HII and the shipyard where the USS George M. Neal (DDG 131) was launched.
George M. Neal
George M. Neal was a Korean War veteran and an aviation machinist's mate third class who was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic actions while attempting to rescue a fellow service member under enemy fire.
Chris Brown
Chris Brown is the Ingalls Shipbuilding DDG 51 program manager.
What they’re saying
“Launching DDG 131 is a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our Ingalls shipbuilders. Seeing the ship reach the water for the first time is a proud moment for everyone involved and a real testament to the people who make this work possible for our U.S. Navy.”
— Chris Brown, Ingalls Shipbuilding DDG 51 program manager
What’s next
Following the launch, the George M. Neal will move into the next phase of construction, which includes outfitting, systems activation, and testing in preparation for sea trials.
The takeaway
The launch of the USS George M. Neal (DDG 131) is a significant milestone for Ingalls Shipbuilding and the U.S. Navy, as the new Arleigh Burke-class destroyer will feature advanced radar and combat systems to help counter modern threats well into the 21st century.
