In a boost to US naval capabilities, Progeny Systems, a subsidiary of General Dynamics Mission Systems, has been awarded an $11.9m contract to upgrade the weapon launch systems of Virginia Class submarines.
This move underlines the growing importance of modernising existing fleet assets to maintain maritime strength in an evolving defence landscape.
The contract focuses on implementing the Common Weapon Launcher (CWL) system for Block I and II submarines, an enhancement that will increase operational flexibility and streamline launch processes across missions.
Progeny Systems, which has a history of supporting the US Navy’s submarine initiatives, will undertake this work from its Manassas, Virginia facility, with project completion expected for July 2026.
Laura Hooks, vice president and general manager of Maritime and Strategic Systems at General Dynamics Mission Systems, expressed confidence in the project’s impact. “Progeny Systems has many years of experience supporting the US Navy’s submarine programs, especially in combat systems. We are pleased that the Navy has contracted with us to modernise older Virginia Class submarines with the capable and flexible CWL system,” she stated.
The US Navy is undertaking extensive modernisation of its Virginia-class submarines, highlighted by a $20.7m contract awarded to Goodrich Corporation for nuclear-powered propulsors, replacing long-time supplier BAE Systems. Concurrently, General Dynamics Electric Boat secured nearly $1bn in spare parts and development support contracts.
Additionally, the Navy is procuring new towed array motors from L3 Technologies, which will further enhance the fleet’s sonar capabilities.
As geopolitical tensions rise and naval operations become increasingly complex, enhancing the capabilities of existing fleets is paramount. The CWL system will enable Virginia Class submarines to launch a wider array of payloads more efficiently, augmenting their value.
General Dynamics Mission Systems acquired Progeny Systems in 2022.
Recently, HII has completed initial sea trials for the Virginia-class submarine USS New Jersey (SSN 796). Simultaneously, the US Navy christened the future USS Idaho.
