## USS Michael Murphy Flexes Firepower in Indo-Pacific Drills
The U.S. Navy recently unveiled striking imagery of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS *Michael Murphy* (DDG-112) conducting a dynamic live-fire exercise in the expansive Indo-Pacific region. These crucial maneuvers, captured on January 16, 2026, showcased the warship’s formidable defensive capabilities as its Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) unleashed a torrent of fire from the aft missile deck. Such operations are a regular component of the U.S. 7th Fleet’s mandate, underscoring its commitment to operational readiness, deterring potential aggression, and bolstering maritime security throughout international waters.
### A Legacy Forged in Heroism: Honoring Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy
The USS *Michael Murphy* stands as a testament to exceptional bravery, bearing the name of Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy. This Flight IIA variant of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer holds the distinction of being the final vessel constructed in that configuration. Lieutenant Murphy was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary valor during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan in June 2005 – a commendation that made him the first U.S. Navy sailor since the Vietnam War to receive such an honor. The ship itself was christened on his birthday in May 2011, with his mother, Maureen Murphy, serving as its proud sponsor. Currently, the destroyer is a vital asset within Destroyer Squadron 31, under the command of Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific.
### The Arsenal of a Modern Destroyer
As a Flight IIA destroyer, the *Michael Murphy* is outfitted with an impressive array of offensive and defensive weaponry. Its primary gun armament includes a powerful 5-inch Mk 45 naval gun, complemented by multiple machine gun mounts for close-range engagements. For critical point defense against incoming threats, it boasts the Phalanx CIWS, as seen in the recent exercise. However, the heart of its missile capability lies within its 96-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS). This versatile system allows the ship to carry a diverse mix of munitions, tailored to specific mission profiles, including Standard surface-to-air missiles for aerial defense, Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles, long-range Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, and vertical launch anti-submarine rockets (ASROC) for underwater threats.
### Multi-Mission Prowess and Strategic Importance
Beyond its extensive missile arsenal, the *Michael Murphy* enhances its operational reach with two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. These aircraft operate from the ship’s double hangar and flight deck, providing crucial capabilities such as advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW), comprehensive surface surveillance, and vital search and rescue (SAR) operations. While initially planned as the concluding vessel of the Arleigh Burke class, its production continued following the restructuring of the Zumwalt-class destroyer program. Consequently, the venerable Burke design has remained the enduring cornerstone of the U.S. surface combatant fleet. The recent live-fire drill underscores the Navy’s continuous efforts to uphold peak combat readiness and to proactively support stability across the dynamic Indo-Pacific theater.