The U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command has awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat a $146.7 million contract modification to increase the design support requirements for the Columbia-class submarine.
The new class of submarines, formerly known as the Ohio Replacement, are replacing the U.S. Navy’s current ballistic missile submarines armed with the Trident missile.
This contract includes design work for the Columbia-class submarine program; shipbuilder and vendor component and technology development; engineering integration; concept design studies; cost reduction initiatives using a design for affordability process; and full scale prototype manufacturing and assembly.
Additionally, this contract provides for engineering analysis, should-cost evaluations, and technology development and integration efforts.
The U.S. wants to build 12 SSBN submarines with construction scheduled to start in 2021. Navy officials hope the first submarine in the class will go on a deterrent patrol in 2030.
Electric Boat will be responsible for the construction of all 12 boats.