NNS, EB awarded contract for firt Virginia-class SSNs

Sea Power, Nov 1998

The Navy has given the green light to General Dynamics Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) to build the first four Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). The two shipbuilders have agreed, in accordance with a unique working relationship developed with the Navy's cooperation, to divide the $4.2 billion contract award for the program, formerly known as the NSSN (New Attack Submarine) program.

Under the terms of the contract, Electric Boat (EB) and NNS will share construction of the four submarines. Electric Boat is scheduled to deliver the Virginia-lead ship of the class-in 2004, and the third hull in 2006; Newport News Shipbuilding is scheduled to deliver the second and fourth hulls in 2005 and 2007, respectively.

"With our partners at Newport News Shipbuilding, we look forward to turning that design into the world's most advanced submarine," said General Dynamics Chairman and CEO Nicholas D. Chabraja. "Together we will give the U.S. Navy a superb 21 stcentury system that will be capable, flexible, and affordable."