HII Secures $9.6 Billion Navy Contract for Amphibious Shipbuilding Expansion
Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) has secured a landmark $9.6 billion contract with the US Navy, marking the first multi-ship procurement for amphibious warships. The contract includes the construction of three San Antonio-class Flight II amphibious ships and the next America-class large-deck amphibious ship. This agreement reinforces the Navy’s plan to maintain a 31-ship amphibious fleet, critical for combat operations and humanitarian missions. By ensuring fleet readiness and modernization, the contract is a response to rising global tensions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
The deal comes after extensive lobbying from the Marine Corps and members of Congress to secure the future of the amphibious fleet. The procurement provides the stability needed for HII’s shipbuilding efforts, allowing the company to plan and execute construction efficiently while retiring older vessels. This deal is a clear sign of the Navy’s commitment to ensuring a reliable supply of new, technologically advanced ships for future military operations.
San Antonio-Class and America-Class Ships
The $9.6 billion contract includes the construction of three San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships (LPDs 33, 34, and 35) and one America-class large-deck amphibious assault ship (LHA 10). San Antonio-class ships are designed to carry troops, vehicles, and supplies for amphibious warfare, special operations, and humanitarian assistance. These vessels enhance the Navy’s flexibility in conducting joint military operations, allowing them to launch helicopters, landing craft, and other vehicles for various missions.
The America-class ship serves as a mobile base for Marine Expeditionary Units, enabling rapid deployment capabilities. These ships are designed to accommodate helicopters, fighter jets, and other aircraft, significantly improving the Navy’s ability to project power quickly and efficiently.
Economic Impact and Job Creation from the Shipbuilding Deal
The contract’s economic impact stretches far beyond HII’s shipyards in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The deal is expected to support over 650 suppliers across 39 states, providing a significant boost to the US shipbuilding industry. The stability offered by this multi-year procurement ensures job security for thousands of workers involved in building these vessels. By purchasing multiple ships at once, the Navy projects a cost savings of over $900 million, thanks to economies of scale and more efficient resource management.
This large-scale contract not only secures jobs in shipbuilding but also in the industries that supply raw materials and components for these vessels, creating a ripple effect throughout the economy.
The Future of Amphibious Warfare in the Indo-Pacific
Amphibious ships like the San Antonio and America-class vessels are vital in projecting US military power, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. With rising tensions in this area, the Navy’s ability to deploy troops quickly and respond to crises is crucial. Amphibious ships enable the US to maintain a forward presence, supporting combat operations, joint exercises, and humanitarian missions.
These vessels offer versatile capabilities, allowing the Navy to adapt to various mission types, from full-scale military interventions to disaster relief. The combination of San Antonio-class and America-class ships will ensure that the US Navy remains a key player in maintaining global stability and responding to emerging threats.
This multi-ship procurement sets a new precedent for US Navy shipbuilding. By securing a long-term contract, the Navy can maintain a predictable shipbuilding schedule, allowing older vessels to be replaced more efficiently. This approach ensures that the Navy maintains its 31-ship amphibious fleet while keeping costs down and improving construction timelines.
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