The IMP supports the demanding carrier operation schedule, and also contributes to steadier, less volatile workloads at both public and private shipyards. Longer availabilities will still be required for some maintenance evolutions. Carrier upgrades and modifications continue to increase the operational effectiveness, technical efficiency, and maintainability of our carrier force. Numerous processing and display system upgrades will ensure that our joint planners, decision makers, and warfighters in carriers have near real time access to the latest data available. Radar upgrades continue to increase the reliability of current systems and improve their maintainability and performance in littoral operating areas.
Plans are in place to upgrade the aircraft carrier's self-defense weapons mix.
Other upgrades of carrier systems are more prosaic, but are also critical to the performance of carriers and their crews. For instance, during a recent complex overhaul, Eisenhower received an additional air conditioning plant as well as upgrades to the chilled water distributive system. R114 refrigerant conversions will take place from FY 2000 through FY 2005. Planning is also underway for the installation of oily water separators and plastic waste processors in all carriers.