General Dynamics Electric Boat has received a $1.85-billion contract to purchase key components and begin early construction for future US Navy Virginia-class submarines.The initiative aims to keep the submarine program on schedule and ensure suppliers are ready for upcoming production demands.“Consistent funding and support such as this contract modification is essential for the shipyards to achieve the high-rate production of submarines the Navy needs,” said Mark Rayha, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat.Virginia-Class SubmarineSince its launch in 1998, the Virginia-class submarine program has procured 40 submarines, with 24 currently in active service and 16 under construction or awaiting delivery.Designed for both open-ocean and coastal missions, the Virginia-class submarines are replacing the aging Los Angeles-class vessels as they retire.Key features include a reconfigurable torpedo room that accommodates special operations forces and their equipment for extended missions, a large lockout trunk for deploying divers, and capabilities to support future unmanned systems.The Virginia class utilizes modular construction, open architecture, and commercial off-the-shelf components, enabling quick upgrades and system integration.Recent DevelopmentsGeneral Dynamics Electric Boat has recently hit key milestones supporting the Virginia-class submarine program.In May, the company secured a $12.4-billion contract to build two additional Block V Virginia-class attack submarines, the SSN-812 (USS Baltimore) and the SSN-813 (USS Atlanta).In April, the US Navy commissioned its 24th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, the sixth with the Block IV configuration, which features expanded missile launch systems and additional torpedo tubes.Earlier, in March, General Dynamics secured a $1.06-billion contract to begin procuring long-lead components for Block VI submarines.The deal includes engines, turbines, electric drives, control systems, and sonar equipment.The post General Dynamics Wins $1.85B US Navy Virginia-Class Submarine Contract appeared first on The Defense Post.