General Dynamics Electric Boat, based in Groton, announced on August 6 receipt of an award for a $1.3 billion contract from the US Department of Defense to purchase materials with long lead times for the construction of the US Navy’s latest nuclear submarines, the Virginia Class Block VI.
The Virginia Class is designed as a fast-attack cruise missile submarine, expected to handle a wide range of missions from hunting other submarines to supporting covert operations. The first ships of the class entered service in 2003, and the Navy intends to acquire new hulls through 2043 with examples serving as late as 2070.
Block VI will feature the latest technologies and incorporate lessons learned from previous developments.
“This contract modification sends a crucial demand signal, enabling our suppliers to invest in the capacity and materials needed to increase production volume,” said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat. “Consistent funding for the supply base is essential to achieve the high-rate production the Navy requires of the entire submarine enterprise.”
The Groton facility employs more than 23,000 people directly and has important business relationships across the state.
