FMD to supply Bird-Johnson propellers for 100th DDG-51

Bird-Johnson has been the sole provider of the DDG-51’s fully mil-spec compliant, shock-qualified controllable pitch propeller (CPP) systems since the program’s inception. [Image: FMD]

Bird-Johnson Propellers, a Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) company, has received an order to supply propellers for the U.S. Navy’s 100th DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-Class destroyer.

Bird-Johnson has been the sole provider of the DDG-51’s fully mil-spec compliant, shock-qualified controllable pitch propeller (CPP) systems since the program’s inception.

Bird-Johnson, which was acquired by FMD in July 2025, represents a key pillar of U.S. domestic shipbuilding capacity. The company received the first contract for the Arleigh Burke program 40 years ago, setting a world record at that time for CPP power output, with each propeller engineered to withstand 50,000 shaft horsepower (shp).

“We are honored to power the U.S. Navy’s flagship destroyer. Receiving the propeller order for the 100th DDG-51 ship is a profound moment for our company,” said Dan Rediger, president of power and propulsion at FMD. “Our controllable pitch propeller system has been a cornerstone of the DDG program’s success, and its proven performance has shaped propulsion designs across the fleet. The Arleigh Burke is the backbone and standard-bearer of the U.S. Navy’s surface combatant fleet, and we consider it a privilege to uphold its legacy.”

The success of the Bird-Johnson propeller system on the DDG-51 laid the foundation for other critical Navy platforms to adopt controllable pitch propeller technology, including the LPD San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships and the LHA America-class amphibious assault ships. These advanced ship classes benefit directly from lessons learned over decades of operation, iteration and innovation for the Arleigh Burke program.

The CPP system is responsible for the DDG-51’s legendary mobility, providing the thrust required to propel the 9,000-ton destroyer through high-intensity tactical operations and seamless acceleration to speeds exceeding 30 knots.

In addition to supplying advanced propulsion systems for the newest destroyers, FMD remains committed to providing lifecycle support across multiple generations of DDG propellers. This includes sustainment of the original systems Bird-Johnson delivered to the first Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, which began entering service July 4,1991. Through dedicated maintenance, repair, upgrades and enhancements, FMD is ensuring mission-readiness and operational effectiveness across generations of DDG ships.

The teams in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and Walpole, Massachusetts will deliver the original equipment for the new destroyer and sustain it through comprehensive lifecycle services, including on-site technical assistance, 24/7 aftermarket support and the Pit-Stop Program for expedited maintenance. In commencing work on the 100th DDG-51 ship, FMD and Bird-Johnson remain committed to supporting the Navy’s mission by providing reliable, cutting-edge propulsion systems and sustainment of the fleet.