QinetiQ Secures $26M Deal to Supply Critical Systems for US Nuclear Submarines

QinetiQ US has won a $26 million subcontract from General Dynamics Electric Boat to provide advanced electrical and electromechanical systems for two of the US Navy’s most important submarine programs—the Virginia-class and Columbia-class nuclear-powered submarines.

The work, which will be carried out at QinetiQ’s US-based facilities, involves building, testing, and delivering key mission systems that are essential for the submarines' performance and reliability. These systems are expected to enhance the Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities and contribute to maintaining technological superiority beneath the ocean surface.

“This award highlights Electric Boat’s confidence in QinetiQ’s engineering and manufacturing strength,” said Tom Vecchiolla, President and CEO of QinetiQ US. “Our systems are designed to support mission-critical operations and reinforce the Navy’s undersea dominance.”

The Virginia-class submarines, which are already in service, are fast attack nuclear submarines replacing the older Los Angeles-class boats. They are built for multi-mission roles like hunting enemy submarines, gathering intelligence, and supporting special operations. Each Virginia-class submarine is armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles and Mk 48 Advanced Capability torpedoes, and can reach speeds over 25 knots (46 km/h or 28 mph). So far, more than 20 Virginia-class vessels have been commissioned into the fleet.

In a related move earlier this month, General Dynamics Electric Boat secured a $1.85 billion contract to begin early construction and procure components for future Virginia-class submarines—highlighting the scale and importance of this program.

Meanwhile, the Columbia-class submarines are being developed to replace the aging Ohio-class boats that currently carry the US Navy’s sea-based nuclear deterrent. These next-generation ballistic missile submarines are designed for stealth, endurance, and strategic firepower. Each vessel will be 560 feet (171 meters) long, 43 feet (13 meters) wide, and capable of traveling over 20 knots (37 km/h or 23 mph).

Powered by an electric-drive propulsion system, the Columbia-class submarines will be equipped with Trident II D5 (LE) ballistic missiles, 16 missile launch tubes, and MK48 torpedoes. They are still under construction, with deliveries expected to begin later this decade.

QinetiQ’s role in these programs reinforces its position as a key defense supplier in the submarine industrial base, contributing to both tactical missions and strategic deterrence for the United States Navy.