Modifies Structure to Accommodate Ospreys

The amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) is receiving structural and equipment upgrades to become the first amphibious assault ship to accommodate the Marine Corps’ MV-22 Osprey. The contract is part of an array of maintenance and equipment upgrades being conducted during Kearsarge’s shipyard period at BAE Systems Norfolk, Va., until late February.

“Kearsarge is the first ship to have modifications performed for MV-22, and it’s one of the largest projects we’re working on during the yard period,” said Lt. j.g. John St. John, Kearsarge’s electronic maintenance officer. “We’re fabricating work spaces and introducing new equipment so we can accommodate this type of aircraft.”

The new workspaces, St. John explained, will be equipped with work benches so Sailors and embarked Marines can maintain the Ospreys and store its equipment.

“In one of the other spaces, there will be an MV-22 Tube Bending Shop,” St. John added. “Here, Sailors and Marines will utilize a titanium tube bending machine to fabricate parts they’ll need for Ospreys.”

In addition to Osprey modifications, Kearsarge’s Rolling Air Frame Missile (RAM) weapon system and Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) will also receive upgrades. “We’re getting a RAM MK 3 upgrade that will give us infrared missile capabilities,” said St. John.

“Our CIWS (Close-In Weapons System) will also have supporting rods, which will help hold its barrels steadier. These upgrades will help give Kearsarge a better self-defense capability.”

St. John added that other minor upgrades to the ship include a safety rail modification for its SPN 43 radar, and an alignment for its SPN 41 radar, as well as inspections to ship’s forward and aft boilers. [ANN Thanks Journalist 1st Class (SW) Robert Keilman, USS Kearsarge Public Affairs]

FMI: www.news.navy.mil/local/lhd3