New Design SSN

The PE 0604558N: New Design SSN program is a critical Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) line item focused on advancing the design and capabilities of the Virginia Class Submarine (SSN), with ongoing work supporting future blocks (Block VI and Block VII). The overarching goal is to ensure the U.S. Navy maintains a technologically advanced, multi-mission submarine fleet capable of defending national interests in contested environments. This program element supports the integration of new technologies, system engineering, and prototype development to enhance the submarine's performance in strike warfare, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare (EW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), special warfare, covert mine warfare, and battle group support.

New Design SSN HM&E is the largest component of this program, focusing on the development and integration of Hull, Mechanical, and Electrical (HM&E) systems. For FY 2026, the objectives include continuing the Virginia Class Submarine Undersea Dominance Payload Integration (UDPI), advancing acoustic sensor technologies, and maturing concepts for future blocks. The program is also responsible for integrating advanced payloads, updating ship systems to support new Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) interfaces, and addressing obsolescence and performance improvements.

These efforts are coordinated with the Virginia Class design yard, sub-vendors, and Navy warfare centers, and leverage technology transitions from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

Within the New Design SSN HM&E project, significant emphasis is placed on test and evaluation activities. FY 2026 plans include ongoing developmental and operational testing, cybersecurity assessments, and validation of survivability measures such as susceptibility, vulnerability, and recoverability. The project also supports integration with the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) program and ensures compliance with legislative mandates for live fire testing and survivability analysis. These activities are essential for refining the technical baseline and preparing for the construction of future Virginia Class blocks.

New Design SSN Combat System Development addresses the engineering and integration of the submarine's combat systems, collectively known as the Non-Propulsion Electronics System (NPES). The FY 2026 objectives include the design and selection of components for the next technical insertion, continued development of sonar, combat control, and architecture subsystems, and the implementation of enhanced cyber hardening and resiliency measures.

The project also supports land-based integration testing, environmental qualification, and platform-specific engineering analysis to ensure compatibility and performance across evolving submarine designs. The Combat System Development line further supports trade studies for radar performance improvements, analysis of sonar cable connector reliability, and the delivery of updated government-furnished information (GFI) to shipbuilders.

These efforts are intended to maintain operational relevance, address emerging threats, and ensure the Virginia Class Submarine remains interoperable with other Navy platforms and systems. The program also coordinates with industry partners and technical innovation consortia to incorporate new technologies and address obsolescence.

Submarine Multi-Mission Team Trainer (SMMTT) is dedicated to developing advanced shore-based training systems for submarine crews. The FY 2026 goals include implementing the latest Advanced Processor Build and Technical Insertion upgrades, integrating new sensor developments, and enhancing simulation capabilities to reflect advancements in tactical systems. The SMMTT provides critical training for submarine operators and combat teams, enabling them to maintain proficiency in approach, attack, surveillance, and battle group operations through realistic, simulated environments.

Congressional Adds in FY 2024 supported the development of Advanced Submarine Control using Precision Maneuvering Unit technology. The objective was to improve the performance and reliability of the Virginia Class Submarine's secondary propulsion system, aiming to reduce ownership costs and transition prototype technology for future construction baselines. This targeted investment leverages advanced technology to reduce risk and enhance the capabilities of the submarine fleet.