New submarine program moves forward

WASHINGTON, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy program to replace Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines has entered the technology development stage.

The Navy's Program Executive Office for Submarines said the replacement program had achieved "Milestone A" following the endorsement of the Defense Acquisition Board.

Milestone A is the point at which a recommendation is made and approval sought regarding starting or continuing an acquisition program.

In the new phase of development the program will establish requirements and continue design and technology development efforts that will ultimately lead to a ship construction contract.

"The Navy is committed to ensuring that an affordable replacement ballistic missile submarine is designed, built and delivered on time with the right capabilities to sustain the most survivable leg of our triad for many decades to come," said Program Executive Officer for Submarines Rear Adm. Dave Johnson.

The Defense Acquisition Board endorsed replacing 14 Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines as they reach the end of their service life with 12 Ohio replacement submarines, each comprising 16, 87-inch missile tubes, in an acquisition decision memorandum.