The United States House of Representatives today approved more than $971 million for the Ohio-class missile submarine replacement reactor program. This is in addition to $186 million approved by the House last month.
Leading to the vote today, Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01) was the leader in securing this funding. He testified in front of the House Appropriations Committee and requested that the bill include funding for a replacement to the Ohio-class submarine to prevent a gap in the retirement of the Ohio-class boats and their replacement, which will impact future missions at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Camden County.
“This legislation provides vital resources for future missions at Kings Bay,” Carter said. “The submarines stationed at Kings Bay play a dynamic role in our nuclear deterrence. The funding provided today will ensure Kings Bay has the opportunity to remain the elite home base of the Atlantic ballistic submarine fleet.”
Kings Bay is currently home to 8 Ohio-class submarines. While these submarines fulfill a critical role in nuclear deterrence and readiness, they will soon be reaching the end of their expected lifespan and a replacement will be needed. The first Ohio-class replacement submarine was originally scheduled to be procured in fiscal year 2019, but deferments by the Navy have pushed back that timeline. This means that there may be a gap in the retirement of the Ohio-class boats and the procurement and production of its replacement class of boats. This bill seeks to prevent this gap.
The funding comes as part of the fiscal year 2016 Defense Appropriations bill which funds critical national security needs, military operations abroad, and health and quality-of-life programs for the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families.
Carter represents Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Camden County in Congress and voted in support of the legislation.
