“These missile tubes deliver critical firepower to the Virginia-class submarine fleet, a cornerstone to U.S. national security,” said Charles Lewis, director of Submarine Programs for Platforms & Services at BAE Systems. “Continuing to manufacture VPMs at our Louisville, Kentucky, facility maintains our strong support to the industrial base, while also ensuring Sailors receive the capability they need to protect our country.”
The VPM tubes enable each submarine to launch up to seven Tomahawk cruise missiles or future missile variants, significantly boosting strike capabilities. These components are produced by a skilled workforce at BAE Systems’ Louisville site, known for its experience in complex submarine manufacturing.
In addition to VPM production, the Louisville facility also manufactures the propulsor for Virginia-class submarines and a heavy propulsor structure for Columbia-class submarines. BAE Systems has stated it is well-positioned with the manufacturing capability and capacity to take on further submarine structure projects in support of the U.S. Navy.
