General Dynamics received $5.1 billion to purchase and manufacture critical components for Columbia nuclear submarines that can carry nuclear weapons

The U.S. company General Dynamics Electric Boat is ready to procure critical components for Columbia-class missile cruisers ahead of time.

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The subs won't start appearing until 2031. However, the company has already received a $5.1 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to purchase long-lived materials to build the next five missile cruisers.

General Dynamics Electric Boat representatives believe this contract is key to the success of the program. Kevin Graney said the investment will help stabilize and expand the supply chain. It will increase production capacity and reduce risk by ensuring on-time delivery of submarines to the U.S. Navy.

Columbia-class submarines are strategic nuclear-powered submarines. They will be able to carry 16 Trident II D5 intercontinental ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads. The missile cruisers will replace the Ohio-class submarines, which will begin retiring in 2027, one per year.

Source: Pentagon