General Dynamics has secured a $12.4-billion contract to support the production of two additional Virginia-class attack submarines for the US Navy.
The deal, which was originally slated for award in 2024, will cover SSN-812 (USS Baltimore) and SSN-813 (USS Atlanta), both in the Block V configuration.
The funding will be allocated to enhance productivity at the company’s shipyards, including workforce expansions.
Additionally, Huntington Ingalls Industries has received a separate $1.3 billion in funding as the program’s primary subcontractor.
“Over the past two years, we successfully worked with the Navy, Congress, and the administration to secure funds … to increase wages for the nuclear-powered vessel workforce,” said Mark Rayha, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat.
“This contract modification validates the unique and important role submarines and submarine shipbuilders play in our national defense.”
Most of the work will be carried out in Connecticut and Virginia, with an expected completion date of June 2036.
Virginia-Class Submarine Program
The Virginia-class submarine program is a cornerstone of the US Navy’s undersea warfare strategy, designed to replace the aging Los Angeles-class fleet.
These submarines are equipped with advanced sonar systems, stealth capabilities, and modular design features, enabling them to conduct a broad range of missions, from surveillance and intelligence to special operations and anti-submarine warfare.
Block V upgrades incorporate the Virginia Payload Module, significantly boosting the platform’s missile capacity and extending its strike potential.
Since its inception in 1998, the navy has procured 40 Virginia-class submarines, with 24 are in active service, while 16 are still under construction or awaiting delivery.
General Dynamics reports that its Virginia-class workforce in Connecticut now exceeds 24,000 employees.
