The U.S Navy has awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB) a $480.6 million contract modification to continue the development of the lead Columbia-class submarine, the nation’s next-generation sea-based strategic deterrent. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics.
WASHINGTON (Dec. 14, 2016) A graphic representation of the future USS Columbia (SSBN 826). (U.S. Navy photo illustration by Petty Officer 1st Class Armando Gonzales/Released)
The modification includes funding for advance procurement, advance construction and long lead time material for Columbia (SSBN 826). Construction of the lead ship of the class is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2020. The Navy plans to build a fleet of 12 new SSBNs.
Initially awarded in September 2017, the overall contract has a potential value of $6.1 billion.
“In close collaboration with the Navy and the submarine industrial base, Electric Boat will continue to lead key aspects of the Columbia-class development effort. This work includes design, material procurement, construction and operating-cost reduction. The entire Columbia-class team is committed to achieving an affordable and effective program. Our nation’s security depends on it,” said Electric Boat President Jeffrey S. Geiger.
General Dynamics Electric Boat has established standards of excellence in the design, construction and lifecycle support of U.S. Navy submarines. In its position as an industry leader, Electric Boat remains committed to applying its technical strengths and business expertise to effectively manage the challenges of nuclear-submarine production.
Our video on Ohio Replacement / Columbia-class SSBN during Sea Air Space 2017
Ballistic missile submarines are critical, stabilizing and efficient elements of the U.S. nuclear deterrence and assurance policy, carrying the majority of deployed U.S. nuclear warheads. Columbia-class SSBNs incorporate advanced technology and will provide the most survivable leg of the Nation's strategic triad.
According to the US Navy, the mission of the Ohio Replacement will be Sea Based Strategic Deterrence:
Replacing Ohio SSBN class, rehosting TRIDENT II D5 (LE) missile system, providing the most survivable leg of the Nation's strategic triad.
Key facts of Ohio Replacement as provided by NAVSEA:
» The Ohio Replacement is the US Chief of Naval Operations number one acquisition priority.
» SSBNs are critical, stabilizing and efficient elements of US Nuclear deterrence and reassurance.
» The current Ohio class SSBN force is reaching the end of its operational life and must be replaced to meet the continuing mission requirements of USSTRATCOM.
» The Ohio Replacement will perform the same mission of today's Ohio class with two fewer ships at $40B in acquisition and life-cycle savings.
» The Ohio Replacement is being designed to have a longer service life, better availability and better survivability than their predecessors.
