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Navy Outlines Industrial‑Base Review; Senators Seek Faster Shipyard Fixes
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Summary
Committee members pressed Navy leaders about the maritime industrial base, public shipyard modernization (SIOP), and workforce retention, seeking timetables and program detail for Portsmouth, Bath, Puget Sound and private yards building frigates and submarines.
Senators used the hearing to press the Navy on concrete steps to restore shipyard capacity and retain skilled trades, including the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) and other public‑yard investments.
Why it matters: Shipyard capacity and a stable workforce underpin the Navy’s ability to raise build and maintenance rates. Committee members said investments must be predictable and tied to clear workforce and contract commitments.
Senator Susan Collins thanked the secretary for visiting Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Bath Iron Works and raised the importance of the SIOP program, including Dry Dock 1 expansion at Portsmouth to support Virginia‑class maintenance. Admiral Kilby said he believes the Navy is on track to meet operational availability dates tied to SIOP work and described on‑the‑ground improvements.
Senator Jack Reed asked whether the Navy is still considering past private‑sector proposals such as the Shipyard Accountability and Workforce Support (SAWS) initiative; Secretary Phelan said the department is reviewing “all options” to fund the maritime industrial base and submarine programs but that timing for inclusion in FY26 deliberations is uncertain. Phelan said he has visited multiple public and private yards and plans to publish more detailed plans as they are developed.
Committee members also raised the Constellation‑class frigate program at Marinette Shipyard and the porting decision for Everett, Wash.; Secretary Phelan said he is evaluating the frigate’s program fit in the broader force posture and noted the yard and workforce investments already made by the shipbuilder. Phelan emphasized the department cannot build as many ships as are needed with present yard capacity and urged whole‑of‑government solutions and industry cooperation.
Ending: The Navy committed to follow up with detailed plans and metrics on shipyard modernization, workloads and hiring; senators signaled they will press for greater clarity during FY26 appropriations and oversight reviews.
