QinetiQ Wins $26M Contract to Supply Key Systems for US Nuclear Submarines

General Dynamics Electric Boat has awarded QinetiQ US subcontracts to supply key systems for the US Navy’s Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines. Under the $26-million contract, QinetiQ will build, test, and deliver complex electrical and electromechanical systems for the nuclear-powered vessels, with work to take place at the company’s US-based facilities. “These awards highlight Electric Boat’s confidence in QinetiQ’s engineering expertise, manufacturing capability and our role within the Navy submarine industrial base to deliver mission-critical systems for the nation’s fleet,” said Tom Vecchiolla, President and Chief Executive of QinetiQ US. “Our technical solutions support enhanced operational capabilities for these advanced submarines, enabling the US Navy’s undersea dominance.” Virginia-Class Submarines As nuclear-powered fast attack submarines replacing the aging Los Angeles-class, the Virginia-class has a primary mission of seeking and engaging enemy targets, intelligence gathering, special operations, and littoral operations. Each vessel is armed with Tomahawk missiles and Mk 48 Advanced Capability torpedoes and can travel at a speed of more than 25 knots (46 kilometers/28 miles per hour). More than 20 vessels have already entered service. Earlier this month, General Dynamics received a $1.85-billion contract to purchase key components and begin early construction for future US Navy Virginia-class submarines. Columbia-Class Submarines Replacing the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, the Columbia-class vessels are designed for stealth and precise delivery of nuclear warheads. Construction is still in progress, with each vessel expected to measure 560 feet (171 meters) long and 43 feet (13 meters) wide and travel at more than 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour). They are set to be powered by an electric-drive propulsion system and carry Trident II D5 (LE), 16 missile tubes, and MK48 torpedoes.