Northrop Grumman has won a $72.6 million contract for post-delivery maintenance work on the USS George H.W. Bush, the nation's newest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
Also known as a "post-shakedown availability," the work typically occurs in a carrier's early life, allowing resolution of any issues that came up during trial and delivery, and to make any last-minute upgrades.
The work, which is scheduled to last through early 2010, will include installing a new fresh water purification system, combat system and radar upgrades and minor repairs.
The carrier, which can hold more than 80 combat aircraft, was delivered on May 11. It is designed to be able to operate for more than 20 years without refueling.
