By what percentage is a Zumwalt-class destroyer larger than an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer?

The Zumwalt-class destroyer is significantly larger than the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, with an approximate size difference of 40%. This disparity in size is attributed to the Zumwalt-class's advanced design and capabilities, which include a larger hull and increased displacement to accommodate innovative technologies and armaments.

The Zumwalt-class vessels were developed with a focus on stealth, multi-mission capabilities, and future naval warfare requirements, leading to a more substantial design compared to the traditional Arleigh Burke-class, which has been an established battleship for the U.S. Navy since the late 1980s. This increase in size not only reflects the Zumwalt-class's architectural and functional enhancements but also its role in modernizing naval combat to face new challenges.

Understanding the key differences in dimensions between these classes helps to appreciate the evolution of naval engineering and defense strategies, making it clear why the correct answer identifies a 40% increase in size.