Extending Depot Length and Intervals for DDG-51-Class Ships: Examining the 72-Month Operational Cycle

One way for the Navy to operate its ships more cost-effectively might be for it to alter the deployment schedules of Navy surface vessels to get the greatest benefit in terms of operating efficiency and crew effectiveness. This report assesses the potential challenges and benefits associated with moving the deployment schedule of one class of ships—the DDG-51 Arleigh Burke class of destroyers—to a 72-month operational cycle.