Virginia Class Sub delivered ahead of schedule and under budget
General Dynamics has delivered the latest Virginia Class Submarine, the Mississippi, to the U.S. Navy almost a year ahead of schedule.
Rhode Island Democrat, Congressman Jim Langevin, is fighting against the Obama administration, which is trying to slash the military budget, a move that would cost one submarine per year, and cause more Rhode Island jobs to be lost.
Langevin said:
“I congratulate all of the dedicated men and women at General Dynamics Electric Boat on another job well done after delivering the latest Virginia Class Submarine 363 days ahead of schedule and $60 million under budget. Their outstanding work in support of our national security often goes unseen, but it should never be taken for granted.
“This news also helps demonstrate the production efficiencies and cost savings that Electric Boat has achieved and that will continue to expand under the two-boat-per-year schedule established in recent years. That’s why I am fighting so hard to prevent the Administration’s proposed cut of one boat in 2014, which could cost us jobs and would certainly cost taxpayers more in lost efficiencies over the long-term.
“The Virginia Class’s importance will only continue to grow with our new national security strategy’s focus on the increasingly important Asia-Pacific region where China is boosting its naval presence. I’m pleased we have reversed that cut in the legislation that passed my House Armed Services subcommittee and I look forward to continuing to advocate for the legislation as it moves forward.”
Langevin must be puzzled by the Obama administration’s lack of foresight, with China building up in Asia, Obama placing more emphasis on Asia, including arranging for US troops to be stationed in Australia, but slashing the military budget in key areas at the same time.
