General Dynamics Electric Boat has received a $987-million contract to extend development and support for the US Navy’s nuclear submarine programs.
The deal includes component development, class lead yard support, and Submarine Industrial Base supplier development enhancements, as outlined under the force’s long-term plan to modernize its underwater combat fleet.
Services covered by the latest award encompass enterprise works related to the continuous production of the Columbia-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines and the Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines, as well as the Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
The funding will primarily support strategic sourcing, supplier tasks, and shipbuilding infrastructure, according to the Pentagon.
Work will be facilitated across Connecticut, Virginia, and Rhode Island, and is set for completion by December 2031.
Accelerating Shipyard Works, Deliveries
The US Navy’s current roadmap plans to expand the Columbia submarines to 12 platforms, the Virginia to 66, and the Ford to 10.
The military is now constructing one Columbia, and has commissioned 24 Virginias and one Ford.
All are part of Washington’s broader effort to maintain national security by adopting and sustaining the nuclear triad comprising land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and strategic airborne bombers.
Earlier this year, the US defense agency requested a $49.2-billion budget to operate, recapitalize, and maintain all three legs of this homeland protection capability.
“This contract modification funds important shipyard and supply chain work essential to achieving the necessary growth in output and supports our efforts to accelerate submarine delivery,” General Dynamics Electric Boat President Mark Rayha commented.
“The ongoing support for the shipyards and our supply base from the Navy, Congress and the administration is appreciated and necessary for us to meet the Navy’s current and future demand for submarines.”
