General Dynamics Electric Boat has awarded QinetiQ US a $26-million subcontract to deliver essential systems for the US Navy’s Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines. Under the agreement, QinetiQ will manufacture, test, and supply intricate electrical and electromechanical components for the nuclear-powered submarines at its facilities in the United States. The Virginia-class submarines are advanced, fast attack vessels developed to replace the aging Los Angeles-class fleet. Their mission profile includes tracking and neutralizing enemy targets, gathering intelligence, executing special operations, and conducting littoral warfare. These submarines are equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles and Mk 48 Advanced Capability torpedoes, and they can reach speeds exceeding 25 knots, or approximately 46 kilometers per hour. More than 20 Virginia-class submarines are already in active service. In a related development earlier this month, General Dynamics secured a separate $1.85-billion contract to obtain major components and initiate construction for upcoming Virginia-class vessels. Meanwhile, the Columbia-class submarines are being developed to replace the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines and serve as a cornerstone of the Navy’s strategic deterrent force. These submarines are still under construction and are expected to be 560 feet long and 43 feet wide. They will operate at speeds above 20 knots and will use an electric-drive propulsion system. Designed for stealth and precision, they will carry Trident II D5 (LE) nuclear missiles, 16 launch tubes, and Mk 48 torpedoes. QinetiQ’s involvement highlights its expanding role in delivering high-tech systems to support the evolving needs of undersea defense operations.
