GA press release
“This contract leverages our extensive manufacturing competencies to ensure these critical structures are delivered to NSWCCD as the first new Columbia Class submarine begins construction in October 2020,” stated Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. “We have a proven track record in the manufacture of First-Time Quality components and safety-critical systems for undersea and surface vessels. This award further positions GA-EMS as a “go-to” resource for shipyards to get complex components into production to meet hard and fast schedule deadlines.”
GA-EMS will manufacture the two BSS’s at their facilities in Tupelo, MS. years. “We have spent the last decade developing and delivering first-of-kind technologies, such as Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems and Advanced Arresting Gear, to support the next generation fleet,” stated Rolf Ziesing, vice president of Programs. “We adhere to industry-leading quality standards and manufacturing processes to ensure we deliver products in spec and correct the first time. And we continually expand our skill sets and manufacturing capabilities to meet the technological challenges facing the Navy’s modernization efforts.”
The Columbia Class will replace the existing Ohio Class nuclear ballistic submarine force, which entered service in the 1980s. The future submarines will be 170 m long and 13 in diameter, and should have 16 missile launch tubes instead of 24 missile launch tubes on Ohio-class submarines.