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Oct. 28, 2016 / 11:57 AM

BAE to increase Virginia-class submarine launch tube production

Work comes as BAE receives contract from General Dynamics Electric Boat.

BAE Systems has signed a contract with General Dynamics Electric Boat for the production of Virginia Payload Module, or VPM, Tubes for Virginia-class submarines, BAE announced. Photo courtesy BAE Systems

BAE Systems has signed a contract with General Dynamics Electric Boat for the production of Virginia Payload Module, or VPM, Tubes for Virginia-class submarines, BAE announced. Photo courtesy BAE Systems

WASHINGTON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- BAE Systems has signed a contract with General Dynamics Electric Boat for the production of Virginia Payload Module, or VPM, Tubes for Virginia-class submarines, BAE announced.

The deal, for an undisclosed amount, will cover Block V boats and will involve certification, special tooling and other items, the company said in a statement.

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The VPM is a mid-body section being integrated into Virginia-class submarines.

It includes four large-diameter payload tubes, each of which can store and launch up to seven Tomahawk cruise missiles.

VPMs will also offer flexibility when integrating future payloads.

BAE officials said the system is a cost-effective way to maintain strike capability as four SSGN guided-missile submarines retire.

The launch tubes are expected to be delivered starting in 2019.

BAE announced earlier this year that it would provide propulsors, hardware and tail cones for Block IV Virginia-class boats.

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