BAE Systems Secures $70 Million Contract for Upcoming Virginia Payload Module Missile Tubes

BAE Systems has been awarded a $70 million contract by General Dynamics Electric Boat to manufacture Virginia Payload Module missile tubes for the Block VI Virginia-class submarines.

“These missile tubes provide essential firepower to the Virginia-class fleet, which plays a vital role in U.S. national defense,” said Charles Lewis, Director of Submarine Programs for Platforms & Services at BAE Systems. “Producing VPMs at our Louisville, Kentucky facility not only reinforces our commitment to the defense industrial base but also ensures our Sailors are equipped with the capabilities they need to safeguard the nation.”

The VPM enhances the Virginia-class submarine’s strike capacity by enabling the launch of up to seven Tomahawk missiles or future variants. These intricate components are manufactured by the experienced and skilled team at BAE’s Louisville site.

The facility also manufactures the propulsor for Virginia-class submarines and produces a heavy propulsor structure for the Columbia-class submarines. BAE Systems possesses both the capability and capacity to expand its production of submarine components, further strengthening its support for the U.S. Navy.