House Appropriations Chair Challenges Hegseth on Submarine Production Plans

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, confronted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a contentious House Appropriations Committee hearing on Tuesday. The focus was on the concerning delays in the nation’s shipbuilding capacity, which have persisted for years.

The top Appropriations Democrat criticized the Department of Defense for lacking clarity and transparency in its strategy to enhance submarine production. With China’s shipbuilding capacity reportedly outpacing that of the United States by 230 times, DeLauro emphasized that the Biden administration had been similarly vague in its plans.

DeLauro pinpointed a troubling gap between the Navy’s current production capabilities and its future strategic requirements. She pressed Hegseth on whether current submarine production levels are adequate to meet the projected needs of the fleet.

“Are we bridging the gap between our current fleet size and the anticipated requirements?” she inquired.

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Hegseth acknowledged the existence of a gap, but asserted that efforts are underway to close it. However, DeLauro remained unsatisfied with his response, insisting on documented evidence to support his assertions.

“We have not received any data that substantiates your statements,” she countered. “Please provide us with the details.”

DeLauro expressed concern over the Defense Department’s funding strategy for submarine programs, especially in light of reports indicating a shift of $3.1 billion intended for the Columbia-class submarine program from the fiscal year 2026 budget to subsequent years.

“This poses a significant challenge for the industry in the near term and limits shipbuilders’ ability to achieve an adequate production rate,” she argued. “Have you coordinated with Electric Boat or Huntington Ingalls regarding your plans?”

Hegseth defended his position, asserting that the Pentagon maintains regular communication with shipyards. “We are in contact almost daily,” he claimed, highlighting their commitment to addressing the needs of shipbuilders.

DeLauro pointed to specific deadlines missed for crucial submarine contracts, which had been authorized under a December continuing resolution. Congress approved $5.7 billion for the construction of two Block IV and one Block V Virginia-class submarines, contingent upon contracts being finalized by February 2025. Yet, the Defense Department did not complete these contracts until late April.

“We have made a significant investment,” DeLauro stated. “It is imperative to understand where that funding is directed and your future plans.”

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When pressed further for details, Hegseth expressed gratitude for the committee’s understanding, acknowledging prior mismanagement under previous administrations. However, DeLauro interrupted, reiterating her demand for a comprehensive plan.

“Can you provide that in writing? We have received nothing to date; we are lacking the necessary information,” she insisted.

Hegseth assured the committee that he would deliver a written outline of the Defense Department’s submarine production strategy. “We possess the necessary details and will supply them,” he affirmed.

DeLauro insisted on receiving this information before the committee’s markup later that same day.

The decline in the U.S. Navy’s shipbuilding capacity has been a growing concern since the Cold War. In the 1980s, the target was a 600-ship fleet; today, the Navy struggles to maintain 300 operational vessels.

Currently, the Navy operates under 50 attack submarines, significantly below the required 66 submarines indicated by recent Navy force structure assessments.

Electric Boat, a subsidiary of General Dynamics, and Huntington Ingalls Industries in Virginia and Mississippi are the principal builders of nuclear submarines. Both shipyards are working near maximum capacity, grappling with numerous workforce and supply chain challenges.

Shipbuilders report substantial difficulties in attracting, training, and retaining skilled workers, including welders, pipefitters, engineers, and designers. The highly specialized supply chain for shipbuilding has experienced severe disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a slow recovery and ongoing challenges.

The urgency of resolving these issues cannot be overstated. As global competition in naval capabilities intensifies, the United States must develop a sustainable plan for its submarine production needs.

Strategic Imperatives for Future Submarine Production

Moving forward, the need for a transparent and actionable strategy regarding submarine production is paramount. Stakeholders are waiting for the Defense Department to deliver comprehensive plans that detail not just funding but also timelines and execution strategies.

Without a clear path forward, the concerns highlighted by DeLauro and echoed by various industry leaders will only grow in significance. Establishing robust communication with shipbuilders could enhance operational efficiency and foster collaboration.

To maintain a competitive edge, the U.S. must invest not only in the production of new vessels but also in the workforce that will build them. As challenges persist, a holistic approach integrating funding, workforce development, and strategic foresight is essential.