Several U.S. Navy shipbuilding programs are behind schedule; a review highlighted delays and workforce challenges affecting the construction of Virginia-class attack submarines, Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, and the future Enterprise nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
Various programs are projected to be late in their deliveries, with the Columbia-class SSBN expected to deliver 12 to 16 months after its contractual date, the Block IV Virginia submarines running 36 months behind schedule, and the CVN-80 aircraft carrier potentially delivering 18 to 26 months late.
Management challenges and workforce shortages have contributed to delays, with shipyards like Fincantieri’s Marinette Marine facing increased workloads. Strategies to address these challenges include integrating design teams and adjusting risk-sharing agreements.
The review underscored the importance of investing in the national strategic asset of the shipbuilding industrial base and addressing workforce transitions to ensure timely delivery of critical naval assets. Ongoing efforts include enhancing oversight and design processes to minimize future delays.
