The
funds will be used to procure two VPM pre-production setups to support
the manufacturing start of the VPM payload tubes. This modification
brings the cumulative value of the overall Virginia-class Lead Yard
Services contract, initially awarded in 2010, to $1.46 billion.
The VPM will comprise four large-diameter payload tubes in a new hull
section to be inserted in Virginia-class submarines. The section will
extended the hull by 70 to 80 feet and boost strike capacity by 230
percent while increasing the cost by less than 15 percent.
The VPM allows for distribution of strike assets, giving theater commanders
greater discretion in staging payload and allowing them to more easily
cover widely sperated targets. The increased volume enables wide use
of Special Forces and provides flexibility for the designers of tomorrow's
weapons, sensors, adjunct vehicles and other potential payloads.
Block V Virginia class SSNs with VPM will begin construction in 2019
with IOC expected in 2026. They will be able to deploy a total of 28
Tomahawk cruise missiles or a wide range of future payloads. |
