Henrico Times

Congressman Rob Wittman, along with Virginia delegation members Reps. Jen Kiggans, Bobby Scott, and Jennifer McClellan, have sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin urging the Department of Defense (DOD) to ensure funding for the Hampton Roads shipbuilding ecosystem. The representatives emphasized the importance of stable and predictable shipbuilding timelines for maintaining a healthy industrial base and providing economic benefits for the region.

According to Congressman Wittman, any delays in funding for the next Ford-class carrier would be disruptive to the Navy's ability to project power and ensure national security. He stated, "Stable and predictable shipbuilding timelines help to maintain a healthy industrial base ecosystem while providing economic benefits for thousands of Virginians in the greater Hampton Roads region."

Congresswoman Kiggans highlighted the critical role of aircraft carriers in projecting power globally and emphasized the need to prioritize the shipbuilding schedule. She said, "Our aircraft carriers are the best in the world and the cornerstone of our ability to project power around the globe." Congresswoman Kiggans also highlighted the economic impact of the shipbuilding industry, stating that it provides stable, well-paying jobs for the region and contributes significantly to the local economy.

Congressman Scott emphasized the importance of consistent Navy procurement schedules for shipbuilding. He stated, "Uncertainty in the production line leads to uncertainty in our national security capabilities." Congressman Scott reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring reliable funding for the Ford-class and the nation's entire shipbuilding program.

Congresswoman McClellan stressed the vital role of Hampton Roads in supporting the U.S. Navy and national security priorities. She stated, "Hampton Roads plays a vital role in supporting the U.S. Navy and America's national security priorities." She joined her colleagues in urging the Defense Department to ensure the timely procurement of aircraft carriers and other military assets.

The representatives' letter to Secretary Austin expressed support for the procurement of Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers on steady and predictable construction intervals. They highlighted the benefits of a block buy procurement strategy, which would save the nation more than $5 billion and provide stability to the shipbuilding industry.

The letter also emphasized the importance of the aircraft carrier fleet and the need for a steady procurement timeline. The representatives urged the Department to remain on course with the procurement of CVN 82 in 2028 and consider the optimum acquisition strategy outlined in the Navy's report to the defense committees.

The Hampton Roads shipbuilding ecosystem is a vital component of national security and economic stability. The representatives' letter to Secretary Austin demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the funding and support necessary for the continued success of the shipbuilding industry in the region.

To find out more, go to this link: https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5463