Aging frigates will be replaced by new or modified destroyers at the Everett homeport, Rep. Rick Larsen says.

By Jennifer Sullivan

February 14, 2012

Three aging frigates at Naval Station Everett will be replaced by new or modified destroyers over the next seven years, according to a news release by U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen's office.

The destroyers will be a mix of new and modified ballistic missile defense-capable ships.

"The decision to homeport three more destroyers here secures the future of Naval Station Everett," Larsen's news release said. "Today's announcement is a validation of the community's long and steadfast support for Naval Station Everett. I have spent years convincing the Navy that Everett is ready, willing and able to support more and larger ships. Not only is Everett a strategically important location, but its facilities are among the best the Navy has to offer."

Larsen's office said that the congressman learned of the decision to replace the frigates from Navy Secretary Ray Mabus last week. The change will mean Naval Station Everett will be homeport to five destroyers in addition to an aircraft carrier, resulting in a 7 percent increase in personnel from 3,956 to 4,235.

"The ships will also bring hundreds of new sailors and their families to Snohomish County, boosting our economy," Larsen said in the news release. "This means hundreds of new customers for our businesses and residents in our neighborhoods. I look forward to joining the community in welcoming the crews and families over the next few years."