The first phases of the facility, opening in 2017, will feature production bays to improve construction efficiencies under current contracts for the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier and Virginia-class submarine programs.

“We aren’t just breaking ground on a new facility, we’re breaking the mold on how we build aircraft carriers and submarines,” said Newport News Shipbuilding President Matt Mulherin, explaining how the JMAF will bring work indoors, providing better quality of life for shipbuilders. “The improvements will increase productivity and efficiency, all while driving down overall cost and ensuring schedule performance.”

The facility will feature multiple worksites, advanced technology, automated equipment, heavyweight cranes, large transportation doors and specialty paint bays. The facility will support current and future production work on aircraft carriers and submarines.

“I’m excited about the addition of the Joint Manufacturing Assembly Facility,” said Newport News Vice Mayor Robert S. Coleman. “This facility will allow us to retain significant high-paying jobs in Newport News in the future and will allow future generations to know that the greatest ships the world has ever known were built right here in Newport News.”