Maintaining a modern and capable naval fleet requires continuous investment in upkeep and modernization. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) regularly awards significant contracts to ensure its vessels remain mission-ready.
A notable recent award underscores this commitment. General Dynamics NASSCO, based in San Diego, California, has secured a substantial contract.
The U.S. Navy awarded the firm a $198,955,270 firm-fixed-price contract, officially announced on May 20, 2025. The funds are designated for critical work on a major amphibious assault ship, highlighting NASSCO's important role in naval ship maintenance.
Extensive Work Planned for Amphibious Assault Ship
The contract specifically covers the maintenance, modernization, and repair of the USS America (LHA 6). This work will be part of the ship's Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Docking Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA). A DSRA is a significant period. It involves dry-docking the vessel for extensive depot-level repairs and alterations.
During a DSRA, numerous ship systems are inspected and overhauled. This includes hull work, engineering systems, combat systems, and habitability upgrades. The goal is to extend the service life of the ship and enhance its operational capabilities, ensuring the vessel meets current and future mission demands.
The USS America (LHA 6): A Versatile Platform
The USS America (LHA 6) is the lead ship of its class of amphibious assault ships, which are critical components of U.S. naval expeditionary forces. They are designed to project power and maintain sea control, and they support a wide range of missions.
These missions include amphibious assaults, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and crisis response. The USS America is notable for its aviation-centric design. It can support a variety of aircraft, including F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters and MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
Impact and Timeline
The contract work will be performed primarily in San Diego, California, where NASSCO's main shipyard operations are located. Such contracts provide vital support for the local skilled workforce and sustain the broader defense industrial base. The project is expected to be a multi-year effort.
Completion of this extensive maintenance and modernization period is anticipated by July 2027. The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), headquartered in Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity managing this award. NAVSEA is responsible for engineering, building, buying, and maintaining Navy ships and combat systems.
Conclusion
General Dynamics NASSCO secured a $198.9 million Navy contract covering major maintenance, modernization, and repair for the USS America (LHA 6). The work, part of a FY2026 DSRA, will occur in San Diego. This award underscores the ongoing need to maintain naval fleet readiness and highlights NASSCO's key role in supporting U.S. maritime capabilities.
