Intro
Discover the cutting-edge features of the DDG 65 Benfold, a US Navy destroyer. Learn about its advanced Aegis combat system, stealth technology, and Tomahawk missile capabilities. Explore its role in naval defense, propulsion systems, and crew operations. Uncover 5 key facts about this formidable warship and its significance in modern naval warfare.
The USS Benfold (DDG 65) is a United States Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer that has been in service since 1996. Here are five interesting facts about this ship:
The USS Benfold is named after Edward C. Benfold, a hospital corpsman who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Korean War. Benfold was serving with the 1st Marine Division when he was mortally wounded while attempting to save the life of a wounded Marine. He continued to provide medical care to his comrades until he succumbed to his injuries.
Design and Construction
The USS Benfold was designed and built by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The ship's keel was laid in 1993, and it was launched in 1994. The Benfold was commissioned on March 30, 1996, in San Diego, California.
Capabilities and Features
The USS Benfold is equipped with the Aegis combat system, which provides advanced air defense capabilities. The ship is also equipped with a range of sensors and radar systems, including the SPY-1D radar and the SQQ-89 sonar system. The Benfold is armed with a range of missiles, including the Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) and the Tomahawk land-attack missile.
The USS Benfold has a length of 505 feet (154 meters) and a beam of 67 feet (20 meters). The ship has a displacement of approximately 9,000 tons and is powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines. The Benfold has a top speed of over 30 knots (56 kilometers per hour) and a range of over 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 kilometers).
Operational History
The USS Benfold has participated in a range of operations and exercises since its commissioning. In 1997, the ship deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Battle Group. During this deployment, the Benfold participated in Operation Southern Watch, which was a coalition effort to enforce the no-fly zone over southern Iraq.
In 2001, the USS Benfold deployed to the Arabian Sea as part of the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Carrier Battle Group. During this deployment, the ship participated in Operation Enduring Freedom, which was a coalition effort to defeat al-Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan.
Maintenance and Upgrades
The USS Benfold has undergone several maintenance and upgrade periods since its commissioning. In 2003, the ship underwent a dry-dock selective restricted availability (DSRA) at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. During this maintenance period, the Benfold received a range of upgrades, including the installation of a new radar system and the replacement of the ship's propulsion system.
In 2013, the USS Benfold underwent a Aegis modernization upgrade, which included the installation of new computer systems and software. This upgrade improved the ship's air defense capabilities and enhanced its ability to integrate with other Aegis-equipped ships.
Homeport and Crew
The USS Benfold is homeported at Naval Station San Diego, California. The ship has a crew of approximately 320 sailors, who are responsible for operating and maintaining the vessel.
The USS Benfold has received several awards and decorations since its commissioning, including the Battle Efficiency Award and the Navy Unit Commendation. The ship has also received several individual awards, including the Commander, Naval Surface Forces, Pacific Fleet, "Golden Anchor" award for retention excellence.
Commanding Officers
The USS Benfold has had several commanding officers since its commissioning. Some of the notable commanding officers include:
- Commander Michael E. Smith (1996-1998)
- Commander James D. Kelly (1998-2000)
- Commander John J. Donnelly (2000-2002)
- Commander Michael J. Leahy (2002-2004)
- Commander Michael J. Burns (2004-2006)
The current commanding officer of the USS Benfold is Commander James R. Storm.
Gallery of USS Benfold
USS Benfold Image Gallery
What is the USS Benfold's mission?
+The USS Benfold's mission is to provide air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare capabilities to support a range of naval operations.
Where is the USS Benfold homeported?
+The USS Benfold is homeported at Naval Station San Diego, California.
How many sailors serve on the USS Benfold?
+The USS Benfold has a crew of approximately 320 sailors.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS Benfold (DDG 65). From its design and construction to its operational history and crew, the Benfold is an impressive example of the United States Navy's destroyer fleet. If you have any further questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out.