Article

The U.S. Navy's Columbia-class submarine program, crucial for nuclear deterrence, is experiencing significant construction and schedule delays, with the lead submarine, USS District of Columbia (SSBN-826), now projected for delivery in 2029, 17 months late. Twelve submarines are planned to replace the aging Ohio-class fleet, but concerns from the Government Accountability Office indicate potential cost growth and workforce challenges could impact the timeline for achieving full operational capacity by the early 2040s.