BAE to deliver payload tubes for Virginia subs
BAE Systems has received a contract from General Dynamics Electric Boat to produce payload tubes for two of the US Navy’s new Virginia-class submarines, the company announced on 5 June.
Under the contract, BAE Systems will deliver two sets, each consisting of four tubes, for the Virginia payload modules (VPMs) on the SSN 804 and SSN 805. The company will also develop the processes and tooling necessary for the Block V payload tube production. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2020.
The VPM extends the length of the Block V submarines over previous versions of the Virginia class by adding an additional mid-body section to create more payload space for increased firepower.
Each large-diameter payload tube can store and launch up to seven Tomahawk cruise missiles. The VPM also offers better flexibility for the integration of future payload types, such as unmanned systems or next-generation weapons.
BAE Systems is also supplying payload tubes for the SSN 803 under a previously awarded VPM contract.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection]()
Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection
With Australia’s selection of the Mogami-class for Project Sea 3000, Mitsubishi is investigating local production in the next decade as potential export opportunities emerge.
-
![Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions]()
Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions
The new sonar is designed to equip uncrewed underwater vessels, with the potential to be used by the Royal Navy for its Atlantic Bastion and Atlantic Net missions.
-
![Hanwha wins Australian government approval to increase its stake in Austal]()
Hanwha wins Australian government approval to increase its stake in Austal
The contract would mean the two shipbuilders can collaborate strategically and enhance shipbuilding capabilities in Western Australia.
-
![Royal Australian Navy sizes up modernisation plans for new and existing capabilities]()
Royal Australian Navy sizes up modernisation plans for new and existing capabilities
The Australian navy is pushing ahead with its efforts to modernise its workforce and capabilities while balancing risky submarine upgrades, ageing Collins-class boats and a shrinking minehunter fleet. Head of navy capability RAdm Stephen Hughes updated Shephard on the force’s progress.
-
![UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction]()
UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction
The expansion of the Virginia-class submarine construction to UK shores could accelerate the project as US shipbuilders continue to fall short of delivery goals.
