"This contract will cover the AWS [Air Warfare Systems] ship integration and test efforts for five new construction DDG 51 class ships, and the major modernization of five DDG 51 class ships," the announcement stated on Tuesday.
The contract provides for Aegis shipboard integration engineering, test team support, modernization team engineering support, ballistic missile defense test team support and AWS assessments, according to the Defense Department.
The contract also covers combat system modifications and upgrades for all current ships with all AWS baselines, the Defense Department added.
Russia has repeatedly expressed concern about US plans to dramatically expand its force of Aegis-equipped missile defense warships around Europe, escalating the arms race and upsetting established balance of forces.
