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About the Name "Radford"

About the AEM/S system

Accidents aboard the Ship

About the Ship's Coat of Arms

History

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USS Arthur W. Radford (DD 968)

USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD was the eighth ship in the SPRUANCE - class and the Navy’s test platform for the AEM/S System.

After being decommissioned, ARTHUR W. RADFORD was towed to the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Inactive Ships Maintenance Office in Philadelphia. Later, the ship was scheduled to be towed to Pascagoula, Miss., where Northrop Grumman was to equip it with the new DD(X) technology. Some of this technology included three engineering development models comprised of an integrated power system, composite deckhouse and dual band radar. The integrated power system would allow rapid reconfiguration of power, reduced acoustic noise, and greater flexibility in ship design.

The conversion was scheduled to begin in fall of 2004 and would have taken approximately one year. However, ARTHUR W. RADFORD's DD(X) conversion was cancelled and the destroyer was subsequently laid-up in Philadelphia awaiting final disposal. Initially, the sinking was planned for mid-2010, however, the date was later delayed to November 2010, but that date couldn't be met as well. Susequent sinking plans for spring 2011 were also cancelled and the actual sinking of the destroyer took place on August 10, 2011, off Cape May.

Commissioned in 1977, ARTHUR W. RADFORD has completed 10 deployments where it participated in many exercises and missions, such as Exercise Multiplex-79, Exercise Dawn Patrol and Operation Enduring Freedom. During the ship’s service, it had been to Venezuela, Panama, Argentina, Brazil, Senegal, Oman, Bahrain, the Azores, Nova Scotia, Italy and Turkey.

USS RADFORD was homeported in Norfolk, Va.

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD. It is no official listing but contains the names of sailors who submitted their information.

• Click here to view the list.

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• Click here to see which USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD Cruise Books:

• Commissioning Cruise Book 1977-78
• Mediterranean Cruise Book 1983
• Arabian Gulf Cruise Book 1991-92
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2000

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About the Ship's Name, about Admiral Arthur W. Radford:

Admiral Radford served in three wars. He was onboard the USS SOUTH CAROLINA, a battleship in the Atlantic Fleet, and was Aide and First Lieutenant to commander, Battleship Division ONE during World War I. He served in the Navy Department's Bureau of Aeronautics and Naval Personnel and in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations early in World War II; and as Commander, Carrier Divisions 11 and 6, and on the Staff of Commander, Aircraft Pacific, during the after part of that war. At the outbreak of Korean hostilities, he was serving as commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet, later being given the responsibility of the Marianas Bonin area and the Philippines Formosa area.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, in February 1896, he entered the Naval Academy in 1912 after graduating from High School in Grinnel, Iowa. He graduated and was commissioned in 1916 and assigned to USS SOUTH CAROLINA. From the end of World War I until 1920 he served staff duty. In April 1920 he was assigned to flight training school and was designated a Naval Aviator in November of that year. Follow on assignments included the newly established Bureau of Aeronautics, Navy Department, as well as the aviation units of the tender AROOSTOCK, and the battleships COLORADO and PENNSYLVANIA.

In December 1945, he became Deputy Commander of Naval Operations (Air) and after a year in command of SECOND TASK FLEET, he returned to the Navy department as Vice Chief of Naval Operations. In June 1953 he was appointed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He retired on 1 August 1957.

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About the Advanced Enclosed Mast Sensor (AEM/S) System:

The U.S. Navy's first-ever advanced hybrid composite structure, known as the Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor (AEM/S) System, has been installed aboard the SPRUANCE Class multimission destroyer USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD , at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Virginia. Since FY 1998, the ship is the platform for extensive testing of the new mast by the Navy.

The new, advanced composite mast, which the Navy describes as "revolutionary and spectacular," was built and designed by an Integrated Product Team (IPT) -- known as "The AE MIS System Masters" -- made up of technical experts drawn from diverse Navy and industry activities nationwide.

The AEM/S System is a 93' high, hexagonal structure, 35' in diameter, enclosing existing radar and providing important signature and other operational benefits. By enclosing major antennas and other sensitive equipment, the AEM/S System protects them from the weather. This reduces maintenance, as well as providing significantly reduced radar signature.

A traditional "Mast Stepping" Ceremony was held on 17 May at Norfolk Naval Shipyard to commemorate mast installation and to honor the AEM/S System Masters who dedicated more than three years to the project.

The AEM/S System ATD has developed a revolutionary mast that is affordable, solves problems associated with current masts, enables new technology required for the Navy's next generation of stealthy ships, reduces life-cycle costs, enhances sustainability, and most importantly, enhances war-fighting capabilities. Successful completion of this ATD is a key element in the incorporation of advanced technology into the topside design for the next generation of surface combatants.

The AEM/S System is a high-risk, high-payoff Advanced Technology Demonstration. Benefits and payoffs include:

Enhanced Performance:
The AEM/S System is fabricated with an advanced composite hybrid frequency selective surface (FSS), designed to allow passage of own-ship sensor frequencies while reflecting other frequencies. Improved sensor performance results from reduction of blockage, false targets and sensor downtime, thereby dramatically enhancing the ship's war-fighting capability.

Affordable Low-Cost Manufacturing:
The AEM/S System utilizes unique materials, creative structures and innovative manufacturing techniques, yet the mast can be produced in a shipyard environment.

Affordable Reduced Life-Cycle Costs:
The AEM/S System's enclosed structure protects radar and communication antennas from weather exposure and provides all-weather access for repair, thus greatly reducing the need for repair, maintenance costs, replacement costs and risk of failure.

Enhanced sustainability:
The AEM/S System concept will enable rapid and seamless transition to the next generation of technology. Features such as embedded sensors, planar arrays, integrated antennas, low observable signatures, reduced topside weight -- all contribute to the Navy's objectives for future warships. Accelerated transition of AEM/S System technology to the LPD 17 is already underway, along with evaluation of its applicability to the SC 21 and CV(X).

The upper half of the AEM/S System is designed to allow passage of own-ship sensor frequencies with very low loss while reflecting other frequencies. It is divided into two radome-like compartments; the upper compartment houses the MK 23 TAS antenna, and the lower encloses the SPSAO air search radar antenna.

The whole system is a free-standing, fully integrated composite structure. Structural design requirements for strength and stiffness meet Fleet requirements for vibration, shock and fatigue. Signature and electromagnetic design requirements are based on criteria associated with sensor and antenna performance, electromagnetic interference, lighting protection electromagnetic shielding, electrical bonding and grounding.

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Accidents aboard USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD:

Date	Where	Events
February 4, 1999	25 miles northeast off Virginia Beach	At about 11:30 p.m. the RADFORD collided with the SAUDI RIYADH, a 29,259-ton, 656-foot-long, roll-on, roll-off container ship, which was preparing to enter the Chesapeake Bay for Baltimore. According to the Navy, the RADFORD was conducting calibration tests on electronics equipment at the time of the collision. The tests required the ship to operate in circles around an electronic buoy. The SAUDI RIYADH, meanwhile, was approaching the Chesapeake Bay from the northeast, preparing to line up in the shipping lanes before taking on a marine pilot for its eventual trip to Baltimore. When they collided, the Saudi ship's bow struck the starboard side of the RADFORD, about 30 feet behind its bow. A pie-shaped gash, penetrating into the centerline of the RADFORD, left a hole from the deck to the waterline, toppled its 5-inch 54-caliber gun and damaged Tomahawk cruise missile tubes. The SAUDI RIYADH sustained a four-foot-high, 30-foot-long gash along the port and starboard sides of its bow, with most of the damage to its port side. The RADFORD, more heavily damaged, sustained a deep gash on its starboard side, penetrating nearly 25 feet into the main deck, ripping a hole from the deck to below the waterline. One sailor aboard suffered a broken arm. The RADFORD sustained an estimated $32.7 million in damages and the damage prevented the RADFORD from leaving March 26 on a scheduled six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea with the carrier THEODORE ROOSEVELT battle group. Repairs aboard the RADFORD were completed on September 13 and the destroyer then deployed with the EISENHOWER battle group. As a result of the collision, RADFORD's commanding officer was relieved.

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The ship's crest is highly symbolic of the ship's namesake, Admiral Arthur W. Radford, and his uncompromising devotion to the defense of our country.

The gold wings represent Admiral Radford's own wings which he earned in 1920. Together with the ship's bow these wings allude to his command of Carrier Divisions 11 and 6, Pacific, during World War II. The four white stars symbolize his promotion to Admiral, while the Red Torii represents his involvement in both World War II and the Korean War.

Three divisions of the shield itself refer to the three components of the armed forces; Air, Sea, and Land, which each form a portion of our nation's protective shield. The four unsheathed swords on the Defense Blue background symbolize his appointment to the head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his re-appointment to this position for a second term.

Admiral Radford's career was dominated by three traits which are displayed on the Navy Blue banner beneath the shield: Patriotism, Perseverance, and Preparedness.

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History of USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD:

USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD (DD 968) was laid down on January 31, 1974, by the Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of Litton Industries at Pascagoula, Mississippi, as the eighth SPRUANCE-class destroyer. She was launched on February 27, 1975, sponsored by Mrs. Arthur W. Radford, widow of the late Admiral Arthur William Radford, and delivered to the Navy on April 4, 1977. Commander David E. Woodbury assumed command when the ship was placed in special service. ARTHUR W. RADFORD was formally commissioned at Pascagoula on April 16, 1977, and assigned to the Atlantic Fleet, with Norfolk, Virginia, designated as her homeport.

ARTHUR W. RADFORD was powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines driving two shafts. Her original mission emphasized antisubmarine warfare, supported by an ASROC launcher, Mk 46 torpedoes, shipboard sonar, and helicopters operating under the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System. The ship also carried two 5-inch/54 caliber Mk 45 guns and was subsequently equipped with additional missile and electronic warfare systems. A later modernization provided a Mk 41 Vertical Launching System for Tomahawk cruise missiles and Vertical Launch ASROC weapons.

On April 16, 1977, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Pascagoula for the East Coast but soon returned to the shipyard for repairs. She resumed the voyage on April 30, visited Charleston, South Carolina, on May 3 and 4, and arrived at Norfolk on May 6. Three days later, she departed for Newport, Rhode Island, to support the Naval Surface Warfare Officer Training Command. During the transit, a LAMPS helicopter landed aboard for an evaluation of the ship's aviation facilities. The destroyer remained at Newport from May 13 to 17 before returning to Norfolk for further training.

On May 24, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for Port Canaveral, Florida, arriving the following day. She embarked Captain R. K. Albright, Commander, Destroyer Squadron 22, and provided surveillance and communications support during President Jimmy Carter's visit to the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS LOS ANGELES (SSN 688) on May 27. While the President was aboard the submarine, the destroyer maintained surveillance of surrounding air, surface, and subsurface activity and assisted in coordinating the operations of ships and aircraft accompanying the presidential visit.

Returning to Norfolk on June 2, 1977, ARTHUR W. RADFORD resumed local operations. On June 6, while returning from the Virginia Capes operating area, she encountered extremely severe weather, including winds exceeding 90 knots and greatly reduced visibility. A radar antenna was disabled, and the ship was blown outside the main shipping channel. At one point, her fathometer indicated only one foot of water beneath the keel. While maneuvering back toward the channel, the destroyer sighted the overturned motor vessel DIXIE LEE II near Thimble Shoals Channel and reported the position and the presence of bodies in the water to the Coast Guard. Because of the shallow water and strong winds, ARTHUR W. RADFORD could not safely approach the wreck and subsequently anchored in Hampton Roads until conditions improved.

During June and July 1977, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted shakedown training in the Caribbean and western Atlantic. The operations included weapons testing, naval gunfire support training off Vieques, Puerto Rico, and visits to Frederiksted, St. Croix, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she spent Independence Day. Additional exercises were conducted in the Bahamas and at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The destroyer reached Charleston on July 31 and returned to Norfolk on August 3.

On September 11, 1977, ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to Pascagoula for a post-shakedown availability at her builder's yard. The work included corrections and modifications identified during her initial trials and operating periods. She returned to Norfolk in October and entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard on October 25 for a restricted availability that continued into the spring of 1978. Following completion of repairs and inspections, ARTHUR W. RADFORD resumed training along the East Coast. She conducted ship qualification trials, engineering evaluations, and tactical exercises before proceeding to Guantanamo Bay for refresher training and to Vieques for naval gunfire support practice. The destroyer returned to Norfolk on July 30, 1978, and began preparations for her first major North Atlantic deployment.

On August 23, 1978, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed the Naval Weapons Station at Yorktown, Virginia, for NATO exercises in the North Atlantic. During the Atlantic crossing, she participated in Exercise Common Effort, conducting escort operations during a simulated opposed transit. Vice Admiral Wesley L. McDonald, Commander, U.S. Second Fleet, temporarily embarked while the exercise was in progress.

Beginning on September 4, 1978, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in Exercise Northern Wedding, a major NATO exercise involving aircraft carrier formations, amphibious forces, submarines, and surface combatants. The exercise was conducted in the North Atlantic and waters near northern Europe and involved naval forces from the United States, Britain, Canada, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and other NATO countries. Participating forces practiced the reinforcement of northern Europe, protection of Atlantic shipping routes, and coordinated offensive and defensive naval operations.

Following Northern Wedding, ARTHUR W. RADFORD visited Copenhagen, Denmark; Rotterdam, Netherlands; and Portsmouth, England. Vice Admiral McDonald reembarked at Portsmouth on October 16 and used the destroyer as his flagship during the return passage across the Atlantic. ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Norfolk on October 25, where the admiral disembarked. The destroyer spent the remainder of 1978 conducting local operations, training, and maintenance.

On March 13, 1979, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for her first Mediterranean deployment with the U.S. Sixth Fleet. During the following six months, she participated in multinational exercises, carrier escort operations, antisubmarine warfare training, and maritime surveillance. Her port visits included Catania, Sicily; Split, Yugoslavia; Trieste, Italy; Alexandria, Egypt; Cannes, Toulon, and Theoule-sur-Mer, France; and Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Rota, and Valencia, Spain.

During the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in Multiplex 1-79 in the Ionian Sea, Exercise Dawn Patrol in the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, Exercise Tridente near Alexandria, and both phases of National Week XXVII. The exercises included coordinated surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, and air-defense training with American and allied naval forces. On July 28, 1979, the destroyer conducted her first operational Harpoon missile firing in the Mediterranean against a decommissioned destroyer serving as a target.

During the passage from Toulon to Theoule-sur-Mer, ARTHUR W. RADFORD encountered the French sailing vessel LAURCA approximately 50 nautical miles from Saint-Tropez. The yacht was disabled and drifting, and the destroyer rendered assistance. After completing her Sixth Fleet assignments, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Rota on September 12 and arrived at Norfolk on September 22, 1979.

During October 1979, the destroyer conducted helicopter deck-landing qualifications off the southeastern United States. She departed Norfolk for Miami on October 23, briefly visited Mayport, Florida, to disembark a disabled H-3 helicopter, and arrived at Miami on October 27 for a two-day port visit. After returning to Norfolk, ARTHUR W. RADFORD proceeded to Halifax, Nova Scotia, in November for Exercise Canus-Marcot with American and Canadian naval forces. During the exercise, the ship recorded her 1,000th helicopter landing of 1979. She returned to Norfolk on November 21.

Throughout the first half of 1980, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted operations along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. Training included exercises off the Virginia Capes, antisubmarine warfare operations, and naval gunfire support training at Vieques. The ship operated from Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, and Mayport, Florida, and visited Annapolis, Maryland, where Naval Academy midshipmen toured her engineering plant. Former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James L. Holloway III also visited the destroyer during this period.

On June 21, 1980, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for UNITAS XXI, embarking Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 34, Detachment 2. After proceeding to Roosevelt Roads, she embarked Rear Admiral Peter K. Cullins, Commander, South Atlantic Force, and his staff, becoming the flagship for the exercise. UNITAS was an annual series of multinational naval exercises conducted with South American navies to develop common procedures and improve cooperation in surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, communications, and replenishment operations.

Following visits to St. Kitts and Bridgetown, Barbados, ARTHUR W. RADFORD proceeded to Venezuela. During the ensuing months, she participated in exercises with the navies of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Trinidad and Tobago. Her port visits included Puerto La Cruz and La Guaira, Venezuela; Rodman, Panama; Manta, Ecuador; Paita and Callao, Peru; Cartagena, Colombia; Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago; Puerto Belgrano and Bahia Blanca, Argentina; Montevideo, Uruguay; and Santos, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Recife, Brazil.

ARTHUR W. RADFORD transited the Panama Canal on July 21, 1980, proceeding from the Atlantic to the Pacific for the western South American phases of UNITAS. After completing exercises off the Pacific coast of South America, she returned through the canal on August 24. The subsequent Atlantic phases included combined tactical exercises, naval gunfire support training, and port visits along the eastern coast of South America. The UNITAS XXI exercise concluded on November 4.

Following UNITAS, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in the West Africa Training Cruise, departing South American waters and proceeding to the Gulf of Guinea. She arrived at Libreville, Gabon, on November 12 and subsequently visited Tema, Ghana; Freetown, Sierra Leone; and Dakar, Senegal. The cruise involved goodwill visits and naval exchanges with West African countries. Departing Dakar on December 1, the destroyer visited Guadeloupe and Roosevelt Roads during the return passage and arrived at Norfolk on December 15, 1980.

During 1981 and 1982, ARTHUR W. RADFORD operated primarily along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. Her activities included antisubmarine warfare exercises, engineering inspections, refresher training at Guantanamo Bay, and naval gunfire support training at Vieques. During the summer of 1981, the ship also operated from Annapolis with Naval Academy midshipmen embarked for practical training. Maintenance periods included work at Norfolk and Boston and an overhaul at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula.

In September 1982, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean. A U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachment was embarked from September 20 to 23, allowing the destroyer to support surveillance and maritime interdiction activities. During the remainder of the year, the ship conducted additional training along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. In December, she participated in underway replenishment training with the Coast Guard cutter COURAGEOUS near Guantanamo Bay.

During the first three months of 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD operated in the Virginia Capes area and the western Atlantic, including exercises near the Bahamas. On March 7, Commander, Destroyer Squadron 26, embarked for a period of approximately nine months. On March 29, Secretary of the Navy John F. Lehman Jr. visited the destroyer during preparations for her next deployment.

On April 27, 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for a Mediterranean deployment with the Sixth Fleet. Her early Mediterranean itinerary included Gibraltar, followed by operations in the central and eastern Mediterranean. After proceeding to Augusta Bay, Sicily, the destroyer moved to waters off Lebanon, where American Marines and other multinational forces were attempting to maintain security following the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. From May 20 to 28, 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD operated off Beirut in support of the Multinational Peacekeeping Force. The American contingent was concentrated around Beirut International Airport, while French, Italian, and British military units also served in Lebanon. Naval forces provided communications, surveillance, and gunfire support capabilities for the multinational force as fighting continued between Lebanese factions and other armed groups.

Following her first assignment off Beirut, ARTHUR W. RADFORD visited Taranto, Italy, from May 30 to June 3. She subsequently returned to operational duties in the eastern Mediterranean before proceeding into the Black Sea. From June 13 to 17, she visited Constanta, Romania, in company with the guided-missile frigate USS ANTRIM (FFG 20). During the visit, ARTHUR W. RADFORD served as flagship for Vice Admiral William H. Rowden, Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet. Romania was a member of the Warsaw Pact, making the visit a notable diplomatic and naval exchange during the Cold War.

After leaving Constanta, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued her Mediterranean deployment and visited Catania, Sicily, from June 21 to 26. She then proceeded to Monaco, where she remained from July 1 to 7. During July, the destroyer also participated in Sixth Fleet exercises and conducted a port visit to Livorno, Italy, from July 16 to 21. These operations included carrier screening, antisubmarine warfare training, and coordinated tactical maneuvers with American and allied ships.

During August 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued operating in the Mediterranean and visited Gaeta, Italy, from August 18 to 22. She subsequently arrived at Naples on August 23 and remained there until August 27. Following the port visits, the destroyer resumed training and surveillance assignments with Sixth Fleet forces. From September 7 to 13, 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD visited Istanbul, Turkey. During the visit, she hosted former Secretary of State and retired Army General Alexander M. Haig Jr. The ship subsequently departed Istanbul and returned to the eastern Mediterranean, where the security situation in Lebanon had deteriorated following the withdrawal of Israeli forces from positions around Beirut.

On September 18, 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to the waters off Beirut and assumed duties as a ready naval gunfire support ship. Fighting between the Lebanese Armed Forces and opposing militias had intensified in the Shouf Mountains, while American Marine positions near Beirut International Airport were subjected to artillery, rocket, and mortar attacks. During September 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted naval gunfire support missions against armed positions threatening the multinational force and the Lebanese Army. Her 5-inch guns were used during engagements associated with fighting around Souk el-Gharb and the approaches to Beirut. The destroyer operated under the control of American naval commanders coordinating fire support with military personnel ashore.

On September 22, 1983, ARTHUR W. RADFORD delivered extensive naval gunfire support against positions in the Shouf Mountains during fighting involving Lebanese government forces. Naval gunfire missions continued during the following days as American forces responded to attacks against positions ashore. The destroyer remained available for additional support until she was relieved by the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62) on October 8.

After completing her Beirut assignment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD visited La Maddalena, Sardinia, from October 14 to 27, 1983. The naval support facility provided maintenance, supplies, and logistical services following the prolonged operations off Lebanon. On October 31, the destroyer visited Tangier, Morocco, before proceeding toward the western Mediterranean and Atlantic approaches. During the final phase of the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted exercises with Spanish naval units and proceeded to Rota, Spain, for the turnover and homeward passage. She departed Rota on November 10, 1983, with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69). ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Norfolk on November 21 and remained in port through the end of the year.

In January 1984, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted local operations in the Virginia Capes area before entering Metro Machine Shipyard at Portsmouth, Virginia, for an overhaul beginning on February 16. The availability continued until April 27 and included repairs and maintenance of machinery, weapons systems, and shipboard equipment. Following completion of the work, the destroyer underwent sea trials and additional repairs in the floating dry dock SUSTAIN (AFDM 7).

During the summer of 1984, ARTHUR W. RADFORD resumed training along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. She operated from Roosevelt Roads and off St. Croix before returning to Norfolk at the end of August. During this period, she became flagship for Destroyer Squadron 10. Further exercises in September and October included antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare, and naval gunfire support training.

Later in 1984, ARTHUR W. RADFORD accompanied the recommissioned battleship USS IOWA (BB 61) during operations near Roosevelt Roads. She also conducted naval gunfire support exercises off Vieques and tactical exercises off the coast of North Carolina before returning to Norfolk on November 20. The destroyer spent the remainder of the year conducting maintenance and preparations for another overseas deployment.

On February 4, 1985, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for a deployment with the Middle East Force in company with the guided-missile destroyer USS BARNEY (DDG 6). Two days later, she rendezvoused near Bermuda with USS ANTRIM and the guided-missile destroyer USS CHARLES F. ADAMS (DDG 2). The ships replenished from USNS WACCAMAW (T-AO 109) before continuing across the Atlantic.

The destroyer arrived at Rota, Spain, on February 16, 1985, and subsequently visited Naples, Italy. On February 27, she transited the Suez Canal and continued through the Red Sea toward the Arabian Sea. ARTHUR W. RADFORD made a brief stop at Mina Raysut, Oman, on March 8 and passed through the Strait of Hormuz the following day, entering the Persian Gulf for operations with the Middle East Force. The deployment took place during the Iran-Iraq War, when both countries were attacking shipping associated with their opponent. The resulting Tanker War created substantial risks for merchant vessels operating in the Persian Gulf. American naval forces maintained radar surveillance stations, monitored regional military activity, and responded to maritime emergencies while attempting to protect freedom of navigation.

Following a brief visit to Bahrain, ARTHUR W. RADFORD proceeded to a radar picket station in the Persian Gulf on March 14. During this assignment, she monitored regional shipping and military activity while maintaining readiness for air-defense and surface warfare operations. Five days after taking station, she received a distress call from the Liberian-flag tanker CARIBBEAN BREEZE, which had been attacked and set on fire in the central Persian Gulf. ARTHUR W. RADFORD provided medical advice by radio and dispatched a helicopter to assist the tanker.

On March 25, 1985, ARTHUR W. RADFORD replenished fuel at Sitrah Anchorage, Bahrain, and resumed radar picket duties later that day. She subsequently moored alongside the command ship USS LA SALLE (AGF 3) for maintenance and logistical support. The destroyer returned to radar surveillance duties on April 8 and continued monitoring maritime activity in the Persian Gulf.

On April 17, 1985, Rear Admiral John Addams, Commander, Middle East Force, embarked aboard ARTHUR W. RADFORD, which served as his flagship until June 5. During this period, the ship conducted radar picket patrols, surveillance operations, and logistical visits to Bahrain. Her assignments included maintaining the regional tactical picture and supporting the commander's coordination of American naval operations. Following the transfer of the Middle East Force command staff, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued radar picket duties during June. On June 7, her embarked SH-3 Sea King helicopter from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron One transported a civilian who had been rescued from drowning and required urgent medical treatment to a hospital in Bahrain. The operation was credited with saving the person's life.

From June 29 to July 4, 1985, ARTHUR W. RADFORD underwent her final upkeep period in the Persian Gulf at Mina Salman, Manama, Bahrain. She departed on July 4 and proceeded toward the Strait of Hormuz. The following day, she completed her operational turnover with the destroyer USS COMTE DE GRASSE (DD 974) and subsequently left the Persian Gulf. After stopping for fuel at Mina Raysut, Oman, on July 8, 1985, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued through the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden. On July 10, she transited the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in company with USS ANTRIM. The following day, the two American warships conducted freedom of navigation operations off the coast of South Yemen.

On July 14, 1985, ARTHUR W. RADFORD transited the Suez Canal and replenished from USNS NEOSHO (T-AO 143). On July 15, she received additional fuel from USNS TRUCKEE (T-AO 147). The destroyer subsequently visited Benidorm, Spain, from July 20 to 23 and proceeded to Rota on July 24. Departing Rota, ARTHUR W. RADFORD began the Atlantic crossing in company with USS ANTRIM, USS BARNEY, and USS CHARLES F. ADAMS. The voyage included visits to Ponta Delgada in the Azores and Bermuda. ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Norfolk on August 5, 1985.

Following the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted local operations and prepared for inspections. On October 25, 1985, she departed Norfolk for Halifax, Nova Scotia, arriving on October 28. After receiving briefings for Exercise SHAREM 62, the destroyer proceeded toward Notre Dame Bay, Newfoundland, transiting the Strait of Belle Isle on October 31 and arriving in the operating area on November 1. SHAREM 62 continued through November 6 and involved antisubmarine warfare evaluations in northern Atlantic waters. Following completion of the exercise, ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to Halifax and then proceeded to Norfolk, arriving on November 13. During December, she visited Boston from December 5 to 8 and Newport from December 9 to 12, where she served as a training ship for the Surface Warfare Officer School. She subsequently returned to the Norfolk area and unloaded ammunition at Yorktown from December 15 to 18.

During the winter of 1985-1986, ARTHUR W. RADFORD underwent a restricted availability at Norfolk. Following completion of repairs, she conducted sea trials on March 29 and 30, 1986, before proceeding to Yorktown to load ammunition. The destroyer subsequently resumed training in the Virginia Capes operating area.

From May 30 to June 17, 1986, ARTHUR W. RADFORD was drydocked in SUSTAIN for repairs to her propeller shaft supports and stern tubes and for an inspection of the sonar dome. Following the drydocking, the ship conducted further training before proceeding to Guantanamo Bay for refresher training and to Vieques for naval gunfire support exercises, surface gunnery, and missile firing practice. After visiting Fort Lauderdale, Florida, she returned to Norfolk on September 12.

During the autumn of 1986, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean. After embarking Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 36, Detachment 6, she proceeded to Roosevelt Roads, arriving on October 6. There she loaded ammunition, replenished fuel, and embarked a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment together with the commander and staff of the Caribbean Squadron.

The destroyer operated in the Caribbean from October 6 to 19, conducting maritime surveillance and supporting Coast Guard law enforcement activities. After returning briefly to Roosevelt Roads, she proceeded to Nassau, Bahamas, where the Coast Guard detachment disembarked on October 22. ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Nassau on October 25 and arrived at Norfolk two days later.

On November 3, 1986, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for antisubmarine warfare exercises near Bermuda. During the passage, she assisted the guided-missile destroyer USS PREBLE (DDG 46) in searching for a sailor reported missing near Cape Hatteras. The destroyer subsequently participated in SHAREM 1-87 before returning to Norfolk on November 16. Apart from a short period underway in the Virginia Capes area on December 9 and 10, she remained in port for the rest of the year.

During the first half of 1987, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted Atlantic Fleet exercises and preparations for another UNITAS deployment. The training included tactical assessments, antisubmarine warfare exercises, naval gunfire support training, and operations with other surface and submarine units. Her assignments emphasized coordinated operations with allied forces and the ability to conduct extended deployments involving multiple operating areas.

On July 20, 1987, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for UNITAS XXVIII, the annual multinational naval exercise conducted around South America. Other American participants included the attack submarines USS DACE (SSN 607) and USS SCULPIN (SSN 590), the guided-missile destroyer USS JOHN KING (DDG 3), the guided-missile frigate USS DE WERT (FFG 45), and the tank landing ship USS BARNSTABLE COUNTY (LST 1197).

During the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in successive exercise phases with South American navies. The operations included coordinated antisubmarine warfare, surface gunnery, communications exercises, replenishments at sea, and tactical maneuvering. The destroyer visited ports in South America between the various exercise phases, allowing crews to exchange procedures and conduct joint training with the participating countries.

In late September 1987, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted an antisubmarine warfare exercise with USS DACE. Following the exercise, the submarine detached from the UNITAS force and returned to New London, Connecticut, on October 7. ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued the remaining UNITAS phases before proceeding northward toward the United States. Her deployment concluded in December 1987.

During 1988, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted training and maintenance along the Atlantic coast while preparing for a major combat systems modernization. The Navy was converting selected SPRUANCE-class destroyers to accommodate long-range land-attack weapons while retaining their antisubmarine warfare capabilities. During a major overhaul extending into 1990, ARTHUR W. RADFORD received a Mk 41 Vertical Launching System in place of her original trainable ASROC launcher. The installation provided 61 operational launch cells capable of accommodating Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and Vertical Launch ASROC weapons. The modernization included associated changes to the combat system, weapons control equipment, and electronic installations.

Following completion of the modernization, ARTHUR W. RADFORD underwent sea trials, engineering evaluations, weapons testing, and operational training. The new installation gave the destroyer a long-range land-attack capability. Although the Mk 41 launcher was technically compatible with Standard missiles, the ship did not possess the complete fire-control system required for their regular independent employment.

During 1990 and the first half of 1991, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued training and operational preparations from Norfolk. These activities included antisubmarine warfare exercises, weapons evaluations, and integration with aircraft carrier battle group units. The preparations took place as American naval forces conducted Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990.

On September 26, 1991, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk on a deployment with the battle group centered on USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER. The formation included the nuclear-powered guided-missile cruiser USS BAINBRIDGE (CGN 25), the guided-missile cruiser USS TICONDEROGA (CG 47), the guided-missile destroyer USS MAHAN (DDG 42), and the guided-missile frigate USS ELROD (FFG 55). Logistics support was provided by auxiliary ships including USNS MOUNT BAKER (T-AE 34).

During the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD operated in the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Persian Gulf region. The mission took place after the liberation of Kuwait, when American and coalition naval forces continued enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq and monitoring regional maritime activity. The ship participated in escort operations, maritime surveillance, antisubmarine warfare exercises, and training with other ships of the battle group.

Between October 1991 and March 1992, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted operations in the Middle East and participated in the continuing American naval presence in Southwest Asia. Her activities included maritime security patrols, replenishments at sea, and logistical visits in the region. The ship's qualifying service for the Southwest Asia Service Medal included the period from October 13, 1991, to March 7, 1992.

ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to Norfolk in March 1992. During the remainder of the year and throughout 1993, she resumed maintenance, operational readiness inspections, and exercises along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. Training included antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare, missile operations, and coordinated exercises with other Atlantic Fleet units.

During 1994, ARTHUR W. RADFORD deployed to the Mediterranean with the Sixth Fleet. The deployment took place as NATO naval and air forces were supporting international efforts to contain the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. American warships operated in the Adriatic Sea to enforce United Nations sanctions and support NATO operations associated with the protection of designated safe areas and the enforcement of restrictions on military activity. From July 9 to August 13, 1994, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in operations associated with the international military presence supporting Bosnia. Her responsibilities included maritime surveillance, escort duties, and support for naval operations in the Adriatic. The ship also conducted Sixth Fleet exercises and logistical visits elsewhere in the Mediterranean before returning to the United States.

During 1995, ARTHUR W. RADFORD underwent maintenance and operational training while preparations continued for another Mediterranean deployment. On August 31, she was reassigned to Destroyer Squadron 26 as part of a reorganization of Atlantic Fleet surface forces. The ship subsequently completed weapons training, engineering evaluations, and integrated exercises with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73).

In January 1996, ARTHUR W. RADFORD deployed with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group for operations with the Sixth Fleet. The carrier group departed the United States on January 26 for a deployment to the Mediterranean and adjoining waters. ARTHUR W. RADFORD carried Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 46, Detachment 7, and provided antisubmarine warfare, surface surveillance, and escort support for the carrier formation. During the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in NATO operations associated with the international military presence in Bosnia. Following the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement in December 1995, NATO-led forces had begun implementing the military provisions of the settlement. Naval forces maintained surveillance and supported the broader military effort in the Adriatic and Mediterranean.

The destroyer's qualifying service for Bosnia-related operations included February 17 to 26, May 14 to 22, and May 28 to 29, 1996. Between these periods, she participated in Sixth Fleet exercises, carrier screening operations, and logistical visits. The USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group completed its deployment on July 23, 1996, and ARTHUR W. RADFORD subsequently resumed operations and maintenance from Norfolk.

In 1997, ARTHUR W. RADFORD was selected as the Navy's demonstration platform for the Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor system, commonly designated AEM/S. The experimental installation was developed to examine the use of composite materials, enclosed sensors, and reduced-signature structures in future surface combatants. The AEM/S installation replaced the ship's conventional aft mast with a large, faceted composite enclosure approximately 93 feet high and 35 feet in diameter. The structure contained radar and other electronic equipment and incorporated materials designed to permit the passage of selected shipboard sensor frequencies while reducing unwanted radar reflections. The enclosure also provided weather protection and improved access for equipment maintenance.

The installation was conducted at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. On May 17, 1997, a traditional mast-stepping ceremony marked the completion of a major phase of the project. Following installation, ARTHUR W. RADFORD conducted trials and operational evaluations of the new mast and its associated sensors. The program provided technical data for future surface combatant designs and the use of large composite structures aboard warships.

During 1998, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued testing the AEM/S installation while conducting training and operational preparations with Atlantic Fleet units. The ship participated in exercises along the East Coast and prepared for a scheduled 1999 deployment with the battle group centered on USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71).

On February 4, 1999, at approximately 11:35 p.m., ARTHUR W. RADFORD collided with the Saudi Arabian-flagged roll-on/roll-off cargo ship SAUDI RIYADH approximately 17.5 nautical miles east of Cape Henry, Virginia. The destroyer was conducting electronic equipment calibration exercises in the Atlantic approaches to Chesapeake Bay, maneuvering in a series of regular circles around a designated calibration buoy. The merchant ship was proceeding toward the Chesapeake Bay entrance en route to Baltimore.

The bow of SAUDI RIYADH struck ARTHUR W. RADFORD's starboard side forward, tearing a large opening through the destroyer's hull and damaging decks, bulkheads, and equipment. The forward 5-inch gun mount was displaced by the impact, and damage extended into areas near the ship's forward missile installation. The collision also damaged the merchant ship's bow. One sailor aboard ARTHUR W. RADFORD sustained a broken arm, and other personnel suffered lesser injuries.

Following the collision, ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to Norfolk for repairs. On February 25, 1999, she entered Dry Dock No. 3 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard for extensive structural work. The damage required replacement of sections of the hull and internal supporting structures, repairs to electrical systems, and restoration of the forward gun installation. The ship's planned March 26 deployment with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Battle Group was canceled.

The shipyard conducted a major repair effort to restore the destroyer's structural integrity and combat capabilities. Portions of the damaged forward hull were removed and replaced, and the work included reconstruction of the gun support structure and repairs to associated electrical and mechanical systems. The destroyer subsequently completed post-repair trials and returned to operational service in September 1999.

The collision was investigated by the Navy and became the subject of civil litigation involving the owner and operator of SAUDI RIYADH and the United States government. A decision issued by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on June 21, 2000, examined the navigation and actions of both vessels before the collision. The court found that the bridge team of SAUDI RIYADH had detected ARTHUR W. RADFORD but failed to respond properly to the destroyer's repeated circular maneuvers. The merchant ship's officer of the watch did not adequately use available navigational information or take timely action to avoid the collision. The court also found that ARTHUR W. RADFORD had failed to maintain a proper lookout and that information concerning the approaching merchant vessel had not been communicated effectively between the combat information center and bridge.

The court assigned 65 percent of the responsibility for the collision to SAUDI RIYADH and 35 percent to ARTHUR W. RADFORD. The accident also resulted in command and personnel consequences within the Navy. Following completion of repairs and operational evaluations, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued preparing for her next overseas deployment.

On April 3, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD departed Norfolk for a deployment to the Mediterranean and Middle East. Following the Atlantic crossing, she arrived at Gibraltar on April 14 and remained there until April 17. The destroyer subsequently proceeded to Marseille, France, where she conducted a port visit from April 21 to 23. Continuing eastward, ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at La Maddalena, Sardinia, on April 26, 2000, for maintenance and logistical support. She remained there until May 3 before proceeding to North Africa. On May 6, the destroyer arrived at Algiers, Algeria, for a three-day port visit that concluded on May 9. She then continued into the eastern Mediterranean.

On May 14, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Rhodes, Greece, and remained there until May 16. Following departure, she proceeded toward Egypt and transited the Suez Canal southbound on May 19. The ship then continued through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden toward the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region. During the Middle East portion of the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD operated with American naval forces maintaining maritime security and enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Her duties included surveillance of regional shipping, maritime interception support, and readiness for surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, and air-defense operations. The deployment also included training with American and allied naval units.

On June 3, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Manama, Bahrain, for a maintenance and logistical visit that continued until June 8. Bahrain served as the principal headquarters and support location for the U.S. Fifth Fleet. After returning to sea, the destroyer conducted further operations in the Persian Gulf before arriving at Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, on June 24. ARTHUR W. RADFORD remained at Jebel Ali until June 27, 2000, and then resumed assigned maritime security operations. On July 11, she arrived at Dubai, United Arab Emirates, for another port visit and remained there until July 15. During the following days, the destroyer proceeded toward Oman for combined training and logistical support.

From July 18 to 26, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD visited Wudam, Oman, the location of the Royal Navy of Oman's Said bin Sultan Naval Base. The visit provided access to naval facilities and opportunities for cooperation with Omani naval personnel. Following departure, ARTHUR W. RADFORD resumed operations in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region. On August 5, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD returned to Manama, Bahrain, for a final two-day port visit before beginning the homeward portion of the deployment. She departed Manama on August 7 and proceeded out of the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. During the following days, the destroyer crossed the Arabian Sea and continued toward the Indian Ocean.

On August 19, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD crossed the equator while proceeding toward the Seychelles. She arrived at Victoria on the island of Mahé on August 20 and remained there until August 23. The visit provided an opportunity for replenishment and crew liberty following the extended operations in the Middle East. The ship crossed the equator again on August 25 during the subsequent passage toward the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea. After continuing northward through the Red Sea, ARTHUR W. RADFORD transited the Suez Canal and reentered the Mediterranean before the beginning of September. On September 1, 2000, she arrived at Haifa, Israel, for a port visit that continued until September 3.

The destroyer subsequently proceeded to the northern Adriatic, arriving at Trieste, Italy, on September 8, 2000. She remained there until September 10 before continuing to Valletta, Malta, where she conducted another port visit from September 12 to 15. These visits formed part of the final Mediterranean phase of the deployment. On September 18, 2000, ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Cartagena, Spain, for her final recorded overseas port visit of the cruise. She remained there until September 22, when she departed for the return passage across the Atlantic. ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Norfolk on October 1, 2000.

Following her return, ARTHUR W. RADFORD underwent post-deployment maintenance and resumed operational training. During 2001, she participated in engineering evaluations, weapons inspections, and exercises with Atlantic Fleet units. Following the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, American naval forces increased readiness and force protection measures while preparing for operations associated with the campaign against international terrorism.

During the first half of 2002, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in exercises and operational preparations with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group. The formation included the guided-missile cruisers USS NORMANDY (CG 60) and USS MONTEREY (CG 61), the guided-missile destroyers USS BARRY (DDG 52), USS LABOON (DDG 58), and USS MAHAN (DDG 72), and the guided-missile frigate USS KAUFFMAN (FFG 59). The battle group also included the attack submarines USS OKLAHOMA CITY (SSN 723) and USS NEWPORT NEWS (SSN 750), with logistical support from USNS SUPPLY (T-AOE 6).

On April 12, 2002, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in underway replenishment training with USS GEORGE WASHINGTON and USS MAHAN in the Atlantic. The battle group subsequently completed Joint Task Force Exercise 02-2 on May 5. The exercise included simulated combat operations, air-defense training, antisubmarine warfare, maritime interception, and the coordination of surface ships and aircraft. Successful completion of the exercise qualified the battle group for deployment.

Although USS GEORGE WASHINGTON departed Norfolk on June 20, 2002, ARTHUR W. RADFORD remained at her homeport for several additional weeks. On July 23, she departed Norfolk on her final overseas deployment. The destroyer subsequently crossed the Atlantic and joined American naval forces operating in the Mediterranean under Commander, Task Force 60. During the deployment, ARTHUR W. RADFORD participated in maritime surveillance, antisubmarine warfare training, and escort operations. American naval forces in the Mediterranean were supporting ongoing NATO commitments and contingency operations associated with the international response to the September 11 attacks. The destroyer also continued evaluating her Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor installation during extended operations at sea.

On August 30, 2002, ARTHUR W. RADFORD arrived at Souda Bay, Crete, for a brief port visit and logistical support. She subsequently resumed operations with Sixth Fleet units in the Mediterranean, including training and surveillance assignments associated with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group.

During September and the following months, ARTHUR W. RADFORD continued her assigned operations in the Mediterranean. Her service with Task Force 60 during the period from April 1 to September 30, 2002, was included in a Meritorious Unit Commendation awarded for the performance of the participating naval forces. ARTHUR W. RADFORD was photographed underway in the Mediterranean on November 27, 2002, during the final portion of her deployment. She subsequently returned to Norfolk and began preparations for decommissioning. The process included unloading ammunition, transferring equipment and supplies, conducting material inspections, and preparing shipboard systems for long-term inactive status.

On March 18, 2003, ARTHUR W. RADFORD was decommissioned during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk after nearly 26 years of commissioned service. Commander Henry C. Smith was her final commanding officer. Following the ceremony, the former destroyer was taken under tow and transferred to the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After decommissioning, the Navy initially considered retaining ex-ARTHUR W. RADFORD for a technology demonstration associated with the DD(X) future destroyer program. Plans called for the ship to be transferred to Pascagoula, Mississippi, and modified to accommodate experimental equipment, including an integrated electric power system, composite deckhouse structures, and a dual-band radar installation.

The proposed DD(X) conversion was subsequently canceled. Ex-ARTHUR W. RADFORD remained in inactive storage at Philadelphia while the Navy considered other disposition alternatives. She was formally stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on April 6, 2004. During the following years, equipment was removed from the former destroyer, including her experimental Advanced Enclosed Mast/Sensor structure. By October 2008, the large composite mast had been dismantled. The ship remained at the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard while preparations continued for her eventual disposal.

In 2010, the former destroyer was selected for a project intended to create an artificial reef in the Atlantic Ocean. The project involved cooperation among the states of Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland and required the removal of hazardous materials, loose equipment, and other components unsuitable for placement on the seabed. Additional openings were made in the hull and superstructure to provide access for marine life and recreational divers. On August 10, 2011, ex-ARTHUR W. RADFORD was intentionally sunk at the Del-Jersey-Land artificial reef site in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 30 nautical miles southeast of Cape May, New Jersey, and northeast of Ocean City, Maryland. The 563-foot former destroyer settled on the seabed after controlled flooding. At the time, she was the longest vessel placed as an artificial reef in the Atlantic Ocean off the United States.

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USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD Image Gallery:

The photos below were taken by Brian Barton and show ARTHUR W. RADFORD at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on July 23, 2002. The destroyer departed on its 2002 deployment the same day.

The photos below were taken by Thomas Zera on May 28, 2006, and show the decommissioned ARTHUR W. RADFORD at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.

The photos below were taken by Brian Barton on May 22, 2007, and show the ARTHUR W. RADFORD at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. At that time she was stripped of her equipment.

The photo below was taken by Brian Barton on October 13, 2008, and shows the ARTHUR W. RADFORD at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. The experimental mast has now been removed.

The photos below were taken by me on November 7, 2008, and show the ARTHUR W. RADFORD laid up at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.

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The photos below were taken by Thomas Zera on August 1, 2010, and show the ARTHUR W. RADFORD being prepared for sinking at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Her masts are completely removed now and large holes have been cut into the forward superstructure.

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The photos below were taken by me on October 26, 2010, and show the ARTHUR W. RADFORD being prepared for sinking at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Her masts are completely removed now and large holes have been cut into the forward superstructure.

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