NOVEMBER 20, 2025 – The U.S Navy accepted delivery of future USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. (DDG 124), from General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, Nov. 17.
The delivery of DDG 124 marks the official transfer of the ship from the shipbuilder to the Navy.
Delivery follows a rigorous series of at-sea and pier side trials designed to demonstrate the ship’s readiness and performance across propulsion, combat systems, communications, and navigation functions.
“The future USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. will deliver powerful capability to the Fleet and enhance our maritime advantage,” said Capt. Jay Young, Arleigh Burke-class program manager, Program Executive Office, Ships (PEO Ships). “DDG 124 and her crew will be a constant reminder of the service and commitment exhibited by her remarkable namesake.”
The ship is named after retired United States Marine Corps Col. Harvey C. Barnum, Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his extraordinary heroism and valor during the Vietnam War. His leadership under fire and lifelong commitment to service embody the values of courage, honor, and dedication that define America’s naval force. One of the few living namesakes, Col. Barnum has closely followed the construction of DDG 124 and joined the crew, Navy programmatic team, and industry partners for the initial set of sea trials where he fired the first shot from the ship’s five-inch gun.
As an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, DDG 124 is the most advanced multi-mission warships in the world. The ship will serve as a multi-mission surface combatant capable of conducting Anti-Air, Anti-Surface, and Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities, providing robust defensive and offensive power in any maritime environment.
General Dynamics Bath Iron Works has seven additional future Arleigh Burke-class destroyers under construction: Louis H. Wilson Jr. (DDG 126), Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), William Charette (DDG 130), Quentin Walsh (DDG 132), John E. Kilmer (DDG 134), Richard G. Lugar (DDG 136), and J. William Middendorf (DDG 138).
As one of the Department of War acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships and craft, auxiliary ships, special mission ships, sealift ships and support ships.
For more on Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer visit: Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer
From By Team Ships Public Affairs