BAE Systems to provide missile tubes to Block VI Virginia-class submarines
The Block V and Block VI Virginia-class submarine will have VPM firepower. (Photo: US Navy)
BAE Systems has been awarded a US$70 million contract by General Dynamics Electric Boat to produce Virginia Payload Module (VPM) missile tubes for Block VI Virginia-class submarines.
BAE Systems in the exclusive provider of VPM tubes to the US Navy. The tubes are a new addition to the Block V iteration of the US submarine, the block that began laying down keels in 2023 (four years later than originally predicted).
Most of the Block V boats will have the VPM tubes added to their design, for the firing of Tomahawk cruise missiles.
The Block V boats are expected to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
-
How the Force Design 2028 will impact US Coast Guard acquisitions
The FD 2028 strategy intends to reduce the bureaucracy in procurement processes while speeding up the field of assets.
-
Thin-line towed arrays on uncrewed vessels deliver more cost-effective sonar, says SEA
Miniaturisation of technology opens up radical sensing technologies to smaller navies under submarine threat, according to SEA sonar expert.