US Navy advances nuclear cruise missile integration for Virginia-class submarines

The US Navy is progressing with the Sea-Launched Cruise Missile-Nuclear (SLCM-N) program, which aims to equip Virginia-class attack submarines with nuclear-armed cruise missiles to strengthen maritime strategic deterrence.

General Dynamics Mission Systems has received a $194 million contract modification to develop a specialized fire control subsystem. This system will serve as the critical interface between the submarine and the weapon, managing launch data and coordinating deployment. The engineering and technical development work is scheduled to continue through September 2028.

To support the program's technical requirements, General Dynamics plans to expand its operational capacity, including the recruitment of approximately 200 new employees in manufacturing and engineering roles. Development began in April 2026 under an undefinitized contract action, allowing technical work to proceed while final pricing and terms were being negotiated.