"kauffman" was laid down on 8 april 1985 by the bath iron works, bath, maine; launched on 29 march 1986; sponsored by mrs. elizabeth kauffman bush, the daughter of vice admiral james l. kauffman and sister of rear admiral draper l. kauffman; and commissioned on 28 february 1987 at bath, maine, commander john c. dranchak, usn in command.