What Happens Next for the ex-USS Paul F. Foster?

Many shipmates have asked what the future holds for the ex-USS Paul F. Foster (EDD-964) once her mission as the Navy’s Self Defense Test Ship (SDTS) eventually comes to an end.

While the Navy has begun planning for a future replacement test platform, no official retirement date has yet been announced. The ship continues to support the Navy’s test and evaluation mission at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division.

Retirement from Test Ship Service

When the Navy eventually retires the ship from the SDTS program, it is expected that a formal final retirement or “End of Watch” ceremony will be held to recognize her long and unique service.

The Navy has indicated that the USS Paul F. Foster Association will be included in those retirement events, allowing former crew members the opportunity to honor the ship one final time.

Final Disposition

Unlike many historic Navy ships, the Paul F. Foster is not eligible for preservation as a museum ship. Over the years the ship has undergone extensive modifications to support her role as a specialized test platform. These changes make it impractical for restoration to a museum configuration.

Because of this, the most likely outcomes after retirement from the SDTS mission include:

Navy Ship Recycling Program
Many retired Navy ships are dismantled through the Navy’s recycling program, where valuable metals and materials are recovered.

Target Ship Use (SINKEX)
Some ships are used as targets during controlled naval training exercises designed to help sailors learn how to defeat enemy warships.

The Navy will ultimately determine the ship’s final disposition based on operational needs and environmental regulations.

A Destroyer with a Unique Legacy

Regardless of what happens next, the USS Paul F. Foster has already had a remarkable career.

Commissioned in 1976, she served proudly in the fleet before beginning a second career in 2003 as the Navy’s Self Defense Test Ship.

Very few warships continue contributing to the fleet for so long after leaving operational service.

For the shipmates who served aboard her, the Paul F. Foster’s legacy is secure—a destroyer that served both the fleet and the future of the Navy.

Looking Ahead

The USS Paul F. Foster Association will continue working with the Navy and will share updates as more information about the ship’s future becomes available.

When the time eventually comes for the Paul F. Foster to stand her final watch, we hope many of the sailors who once served aboard her will gather again to honor the ship that brought us together.

⚓