Virginia-Class Submarine Production Line at Full Throttle

Meet the Virginia-Class: For years, the preeminent Columbia-classsubmarine program took center stage when it came to the U.S. Navy’s priorities.

Now, the Virginia-class submarine production line is finally getting more focus.

Its production line at Newport News Shipbuilding is fully staffed, indicating the remaining Block IV Virginia vessels will be delivered according to schedule.

Since their introduction to service with the U.S. Navy, the Virginia-class boats have supported five of the branch’s maritime strategy core capabilities including power projection, forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.

A brief history of the Virginia class:

Developed under the codename “Centurion,” the Navy’s Virginia-class submarines were conceptualized back in 1991. Perhaps surprisingly, the Virginia-class was not the first new concept to enter service following the Cold War. 

Originally, the Seawolf-class of vessels was developed to replace the Los Angeles-class, but production was abruptly canceled shortly into the program’s timeline. A Military.com article details that three Seawolf submarines were ultimately completed before the program’s cancelation, costing the Navy a whopping $3 billion per boat. The Virginia-class surpassed the Seawolf-class largely due to its cheaper production cost and smaller frame. 

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