# US Navy cruise missile program development

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-navy-cruise-missile-program-development
> Updated: 2026-10-20T14:04:28.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

The US Navy is advancing two primary cruise missile initiatives focused on nuclear and conventional capabilities. To restore sea-launched nuclear cruise missile (SLCM-N) capabilities lost in 2013, the Navy has awarded $743.6 million in prototype agreements to Dynetics, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman. This program aims for limited operational deployment by 2032.

Parallel efforts include the development of the Joint Multiple Effects Warhead System (JMEWS) for the Tomahawk Block Vb, designed to penetrate fortified targets. 

In support of the SLCM-N program, General Dynamics Mission Systems received a $194 million contract modification to develop a specialized fire control subsystem for Virginia-class attack submarines. This subsystem will manage launch data and coordinate deployment, with technical development scheduled to continue through September 2028.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-20: US Navy advances nuclear cruise missile integration for Virginia-class submarines

The US Navy is advancing the SLCM-N program to equip Virginia-class submarines with nuclear cruise missiles, awarding General Dynamics $194 million for fire control subsystem development.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-navy-advances-nuclear-cruise-missile-integration-for-virginia-class-submarines

### 2026-10-08: U.S. Navy advances nuclear and conventional cruise missile programs

The U.S. Navy is investing in new cruise missile technologies, including $743.6 million for nuclear-armed SLCM-N prototypes and a new bunker-busting warhead for the Tomahawk Block Vb.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-navy-advances-nuclear-and-conventional-cruise-missile-programs

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Cite as: US Navy cruise missile program development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-navy-cruise-missile-program-development