9 Most Controversial Modern Destroyers: The 4th One Left Naval Experts Speechless

Though not all of these warships have been greeted with unanimous praise, modern naval combat has seen the development of ever advanced destroyers. Worldwide military strategists, politicians, and naval professionals have heated arguments over these contentious ships. From cost overruns to ground-breaking yet untested technologies, these destroyers epitomize naval innovation as well as the difficulties of stretching technological limits too far.

1. ## USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000)

Among the most hotly contested designs in naval history are those for the USS Zumwalt. The striking look of this stealth destroyer and outrageous cost of more than $4 billion per ship have caused major debate. Designed to fire precision-guided rounds, the Advanced Gun System of the warship became practically unusable as ammunition prices surged to about $1 million every round.

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While admirers applaud its creative electric propulsion technology and stealth characteristics, critics contend that its reduced crew of 175 sailors could be inadequate for combat operations. The program's cut from 32 intended ships to just three begs issues regarding its strategic usefulness and cost-effectiveness.