USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001), the second ship of the Zumwalt class, has made its port call at Fleet Activities Yokosuka on July 7, 2025, marking the first visit by a Zumwalt-class vessel since USS Zumwalt’s visit in 2022. The Zumwalt class is known for its stealthy design and technological advancements, though it currently faces challenges regarding its operational capabilities.
As part of the U.S. Navy’s Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15), the largest destroyer squadron in the fleet, the Michael Monsoor’s arrival adds significant operational capacity in the Western Pacific. DESRON 15 typically comprises around ten Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers and is crucial in ensuring naval power in the region.
Despite its advanced design, the Zumwalt class has been criticized for lacking operational capabilities compared to its traditional counterparts. The ships’ distinctive 155 mm Advanced Gun System (AGS) is currently inoperable due to funding challenges, as the cost of unique ammunition is prohibitively high, reaching up to $1 million per round. However, an exciting development for the Zumwalt class is the ongoing transformation that will enable it to launch hypersonic missiles. The USS Zumwalt recently underwent an overhaul, during which its AGS turrets were removed and replaced with launch tubes for hypersonic missiles as part of the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike program.
The upcoming upgrades are vital for enhancing the Zumwalt class’s capabilities. While current operations are being carried out without the missile upgrade, the experience garnered by the crew of Michael Monsoor will be instrumental when the ship undergoes modifications in the future.
This deployment is not merely about moving a ship; it’s a strategic reflection of the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region amid heightened competition. With the Zumwalt-class ships capturing attention due to their unique appearance, they serve as a powerful symbol of U.S. military commitment, even as discussions about technological innovations continue, such as potential integrations of directed energy weapons.
In a parallel development, there has been progress in international naval technology, showcasing innovation across nations. Japan has also made strides with railgun testing aboard its vessels, signifying an aggressive approach to modern warfare capabilities.
Overall, the deployment of USS Michael Monsoor signifies a blend of opportunity and challenges, with future enhancements on the horizon that could reshape the capabilities of the Zumwalt class as a formidable force in naval operations.