(Warwick, R.I.)–Congressman Jim Langevin, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today offered the following statement regarding the U.S. Navy contract worth up to $8.7 billion for the construction of six Virginia-class submarines by General Dynamics. 

 “For years, Rhode Islanders have played a critical role in providing the United States Navy with state of the art equipment to carry out its mission of protecting our national security and interests around the world,” said Congressman Langevin.  “This contract enables the Navy to award one submarine per year through 2006 and two subs in 2007, helping to achieve the force levels and readiness recommended by the latest studies of military requirements.  A critical part of this strategy is buying ships in a multi-year process, which would ensure lower long-term costs and sustained employment for local residents.  I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to authorize a multi-year procurement strategy to fully realize the benefits of this important contract.”

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