Pentagon says Bath Iron Works can build second Arleigh Burke destroyer, but additional ship still requires congressional funding

The Pentagon certified on October 12, 2026, that General Dynamics Bath Iron Works has the capacity and production stability to build a second Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. Its review examined throughput, schedule performance, quality assurance, suppliers and workforce management while considering the Maine yard's existing construction workload. The assessment recognized operational and managerial improvements but also required continued progress in resolving longstanding production difficulties. An additional destroyer still needs congressional funding, so the certification establishes shipyard capacity without creating a shipbuilding order or committing the money needed for construction of the extra vessel.