UK-based BAE Systems has received a $200.3 million contract from the US Navy to drydock and perform nearly 18 months of maintenance and modernisation work aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer.

The drydocking of the American warship will be the first time the BAE System’s San Diego shipyard will use its 950ft-long Pride of California drydock to service a large-deck warship.

The shipyard is currently nearing completion of another major milestone for the drydock — the first simultaneous docking of two guided-missile destroyers on the West Coast.

BAE Systems’ San Diego shipyard will begin working aboard the 84ft-long USS Boxer in June 2020. Under the awarded contract, the company will upgrade the ship to support and operate Joint Strike Fighters on-board; perform hull, tank and mechanical work; and make other shipboard improvements.

The shipyard is expected to complete its work aboard the 25-year-old ship in December 2021. The contract includes options that, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value to $207.48 million.

Last October, BAE Systems simultaneously docked the USS Stethem and USS Decatur. The guided-missile destroyers are scheduled to be re-floated together from the Pride of California drydock later this spring.

The Pride of California, the largest drydock in California, is capable of lifting more than 55,000 tons.

BAE Systems is a leading provider of ship repair, maintenance, modernisation, conversion, and overhaul services for the Navy, other government agencies, and select commercial customers.

The company operates four full-service shipyards in California, Florida, Hawaii, and Virginia, and offers a highly skilled, experienced workforce, eight dry docks and railways, and significant pier space and ship support services.