What HII’s UK expansion could mean for Royal Navy’s uncrewed future
As HII prepares to deliver its latest AI-enabled uncrewed surface vessel later this year, its major UK facility expansion aligns with the UK Royal Navy’s plans for a hybrid fleet.
General Dynamics Electric Boat has secured a $7.31 million contract modification for planning and execution of the Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine USS South Dakota (SSN 790).
The modification will involve work being carried out in Groton, Connecticut. It is expected that the work will be completed by December 2020.
Funding for the project is being allocated from FY2020 Shipbuilding and Conversion (Navy) funds.
The total value of the General Dynamics contract for the USS South Dakota is now $16.89 million. The submarine, which was commissioned in February 2019, is the penultimate boat to be built in Block III of the Virginia class.
As HII prepares to deliver its latest AI-enabled uncrewed surface vessel later this year, its major UK facility expansion aligns with the UK Royal Navy’s plans for a hybrid fleet.
The UK, the US and Australia have all been working on “extra-large” uncrewed underwater vehicles, but China’s reported development of a significantly larger capability demonstrates the country’s rapid advancement in underwater warfare.
The first Arctic Security Cutter will be built by Rauma Marine Constructions to be deployed in the US Arctic waters.
The effort to provide the US Navy with Trump-class battleships might face financial, production and doctrinal obstacles.
The USN is conducting a market search seeking additional sources capable of supplying 516 units of Over the Horizon – Weapons System Encanistered Missiles.
Canada’s inclusion on the EU’s Security Action for Europe initiative is set to enhance the country’s defence procurement strategy with important implications for some of its naval programmes, while Poland and Romania have also secured significant SAFE funding.