DDG 1000 Large Scale Experimentation

In the spring of 2005, NAVSEA PMS 500 initiated a model experiment program to quantify the intact dynamic stability and seakeeping performance of a large-scale DDG 1000 model operating in a random wind driven seaway for extended periods of time. A secondary task was the measurement of calm water maneuvering performance. The Seakeeping Division of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) was given the responsibility of performing these tasks. NSWCCD personnel developed and tested a free running radio controlled 20th scale model. Model 5643 was constructed to represent the DDG 1000 hull Baseline 5.2 configuration. It was operated in the Chesapeake Bay at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station during the spring and fall of 2006. This paper discusses the two year NSWCCD technological effort. Specifically, it addresses the design, construction, instrumentation, and testing aspects of this unique experiment.