Usually, the US military embraces new technology whenever it has a chance. However, this time, it seems to take a rather crucial step backward with the decision to remove touchscreens controls from its destroyers in the next 18-24 months. It will come back to traditional physical throttles and helm controls.
This comes after a collision
This decision is the response to some feedback from the US fleet. This comes after the investigation of the collision of USS John S. McCain back in 2017, which led to the death of 10 sailors. The investigation indicated that the complex touchscreen system onboard the warship plus the inadequate training were among the main factors leading to the crash with the Liberian vessel.
This change will take effect on all DDG-51 ships which are using the Integrated Navigation and Bridge System. We will be seeing the first switch in the next summer. The first active ship making this change would be USS Ramage, while USS Ted Stevens will the 1st brand-new one to not features touchscreens controls.