SSN(X)

The SSN(X) Program Element (PE 0604850N) is a major research and development initiative within the Department of the Navy, focused on the design and development of the next-generation attack submarine, SSN(X). The primary goal of this program is to address the evolving undersea threat environment posed by near-peer adversaries, particularly in the context of strategic competition and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. The SSN(X) is intended to deliver enhanced speed, increased payload capacity, improved stealth (signatures), greater operational availability, and adaptability to future threats. This effort aims to reinforce U.S. undersea superiority and support the objectives of the 2025 Interim National Defense Strategy.

SSN(X) Class Submarine Development (Project 2368) is the central line item under this program element, encompassing all Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities required to design the new class of attack submarines. The objectives for FY 2026 include completing the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) and supporting the Office of the Secretary of Defense's Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation (OSD CAPE) sufficiency review. These efforts will inform the refinement of requirements, capability development documentation (CDD), and the completion of key acquisition milestones such as Gate 2.

The program is also tasked with developing and maturing advanced technologies in partnership with ongoing Virginia Class Block VIII efforts to reduce risk and maintain a robust design and industrial base.

A significant focus of the SSN(X) program is on Product Development, which involves technical and concept development studies to define the design trade space, advanced technology development, and the implementation of model-based systems engineering and digital design strategies. FY 2026 plans include continued development, prototyping, and testing of advanced materials, shaftlines, and payloads, as well as targeted technology maturation for key warfighting differentiators such as lethality and sustained presence.

The program also emphasizes the integration and coordination with remote autonomous systems (RAS) and sensors, enhancing the submarine's role as a force multiplier in full-spectrum undersea warfare, including anti-surface, anti-submarine, seabed, strike, special operations, mine, and intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance missions.

Support activities within the SSN(X) line item are designed to ensure effective program execution and risk management. These include the development of near-term and long-term schedules, resource identification for R&D and concept development, and the leadership of integrated product teams across various Navy field activities.

The program is also responsible for developing preliminary maintenance life cycle considerations to drive increased operational availability and for revising the research and development roadmap to align with evolving requirements and mission effectiveness goals.

Management Services are another key component, providing administrative, oversight, and coordination support to ensure timely and quality program deliverables. This includes program office administration, monitoring of performing activities, and support for acquisition documentation in preparation for major decision points. The management structure is designed to adapt to changing requirements and to promote efficiencies in line with executive directives on government cost and workforce optimization.

The SSN(X) program is closely coordinated with other related RDT&E efforts, such as Advanced Nuclear Power Systems (PE 0603570N/2370) and New Design SSN Hull, Mechanical, and Electrical (PE 0604558N/1947). These supporting lines provide critical technology development and risk reduction for the SSN(X) platform, particularly in areas such as nuclear propulsion and advanced hull systems.

The collaborative approach with industry and Navy research centers, including the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) and Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC), ensures that the program leverages the latest advancements and lessons learned from previous submarine classes.