A General Dynamics subsidiary received a $2 billion contract modification for long lead time material to support construction of Block V Virginia-class submarines.

Electric Boat initially received the contract in 2017 that provides funding for long lead time material for steam and electrical plant components, main propulsion unit and ship service turbine generator efforts and miscellaneous hull, mechanical and electrical system components.

This modification brings the overall contract value to approximately $3.2 billion.

“This award allows Electric Boat and the submarine industrial base to continue to make preparations for construction of Block V, which will bring additional payload capacity to the Navy.  Our team will continue to produce the world’s most technologically advanced submarines, safely and efficiently,” said Electric Boat President Jeffrey S. Geiger.

Block V submarines will include the Virginia Payload Module (VPM), an added section of the ship containing four large-diameter payload tubes. Extending the hull by 84 feet, the VPM will boost the submarine’s strike capabilities.

Fast-attack submarines like Virginia are multi-mission platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence.

The submarine is designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, special operations, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, to projecting power ashore with special operation forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the prevention or preparation of regional crises.