USS McFaul Receives Navy's New Anti-Corrosion Covers

From Team Ships Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Representatives from the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and the Surface Ship Life Cycle Management (SSLCM) Activity installed the first full ship set of new anti-corrosion equipment covers on board USS McFaul (DDG 74) at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 13.

The new Envelop protective covers are designed to protect weapons and equipment from degradation and corrosion caused by heat, dust, ultraviolet rays, rain and sea water.

Navy trials found the waterproof, breathable covers provide a 90 percent reduction in surface-equipment corrosion. NAVSEA personnel, assisted by the cover supplier, will train the crew on proper use and maintenance of the covers.

"I look forward to the rollout of this important new tool to fight corrosion," said Rear Adm. James McManamon, deputy commander for surface warfare at NAVSEA, as McFaul's installation was completed. "This is an excellent example of how the Navy is leading the effort to install preventative deterrents in the war against corrosion, minimize the use of volatile organic chemical cleanup agents and to save taxpayer dollars."

All new-construction ship programs will utilize the covers, which were developed through a U.S. Navy small business research grant. By the end of FY 2011, every Navy surface ship will be outfitted with the covers.

These efforts are part of a new focus on surface ship readiness. NAVSEA, in coordination with the fleet, has begun a series of initiatives to increase fleet support and improve maintenance practices across ship classes, while also modernizing them to keep pace with mission requirements. These maintenance initiatives are designed to ensure all surface ships are fully mission-ready and able to achieve their expected service life.