NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), Vice Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, visited HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division this week with Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) for a visit with leadership and a shipyard tour.
During this tour, Representatives Wittman, Scott, and Kiggans witnessed construction progress on Columbia- and Virginia-class submarines, as well as on the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier Enterprise (CVN 80). Newport News Shipbuilding has a workforce of 25,000 people and serves as the largest industrial employer in Virginia. More broadly, defense spending and industries within the commonwealth account for nearly 20% of Virginia’s economy and support over 870,000 jobs.
“It was great to visit HII with my colleagues from Virginia, Congressman Bobby Scott and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans. HII is critical to the future of our Navy as they build our new Ford-class carriers, our Virginia-class attack submarines and our forthcoming Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines,” said Congressman Wittman following the tour. “The undersea capabilities of the United States military are one of our greatest asymmetric strengths. Similarly, the global power projection enabled by our nuclear-powered carriers is unparalleled. The efficiency and quality of the designs, construction and repair of these ships and submarines is essential and it depends on a skilled workforce, stable funding and bipartisan support from Congress.”
“Newport News is home to the greatest shipbuilders in the world, and they are an invaluable asset to the Hampton Roads economy, Virginia's defense community, and our national security. I am always grateful for the opportunity to visit and engage with leadership on what is being done by Newport News Shipbuilding, and the work that lies ahead,” said Congressman Scott.
“As a Navy veteran, I know our shipyards are vital to our country’s national defense. Our visit to Newport News Shipbuilding today highlighted the time, dedication, and level of craftsmanship required to construct and maintain the Columbia- and Virginia-class submarines and the Ford-class aircraft carriers. I look forward to supporting our shipbuilders in Congress, protecting our national security, and restoring American strength,” said Congresswoman Kiggans.
“We are grateful our congressional partners took the time to see the incredible work our shipbuilders do in service of the nation,” NNS President Jennifer Boykin said. “This was a great opportunity to continue our strong relationship with Reps. Scott and Wittman, and welcome our newest lawmaker, Rep. Kiggans. We look forward to working with all of them and hope they left with a better understanding of the complexities of our business and our deep appreciation for the many shipbuilders and suppliers who contribute toward our success.
