U.S. Navy awards $76.6 bln contract for next-generation nuclear submarine fleet

Published Jul 30, 11:48 AM UTC

The U.S. Navy has committed $76.6 billion to build the next generation of its underwater nuclear deterrent, awarding contracts to General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries. The package includes $42.1 billion for nine Block VI Virginia-class fast attack submarines (SSN 814-822) and $29.5 billion for five Build II Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBN 828-832), with an additional $5 billion for workforce and productivity improvements. Work will be distributed across multiple states including Connecticut, Virginia, and Rhode Island, and is expected to continue through July 2038. The Virginia-class submarines are designed for hunting enemy ships and intelligence gathering, while the Columbia-class vessels will carry nuclear missiles as part of the sea-based nuclear deterrent. The contract draws from multiple fiscal year budgets, with 54% from FY2026 funds. The award follows years of delays and congressional pressure to finalize the contract.