L3Harris Technologies Secures Full-Rate Production Contract for US Navy Submarine Communication Systems

Contract includes production for Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines through 2033 to enhance situational awareness and communication.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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L3Harris Technologies has received its largest full-rate production contract for communications systems from General Dynamics Electric Boat. The contract includes the delivery of 26 shipsets for Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to enhance situational awareness and communication across submarine crews. The follow-on award extends production for both submarine classes through 2033, with support extendable to future Columbia-class platforms and allied navies worldwide.

Why it matters

Submarine communication systems are vital to the U.S. Navy's strategic advantage, allowing submarines to operate undetected. This contract reinforces L3Harris' decades-long legacy of supporting U.S. Navy submarine programs and its position as a trusted provider of advanced defense technology solutions.

The details

The contract includes production for both Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines. Virginia-class submarines are nuclear-powered, fast-attack vessels designed for both littoral and deep-sea operations, while the Columbia-class submarines, currently under development, will replace the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines as the cornerstone of the nation's sea-based nuclear deterrent.

  • The contract was awarded in February 2026.
  • The production will continue through 2033.

The players

L3Harris Technologies

A leading defense technology company that provides end-to-end solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea, and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

General Dynamics Electric Boat

A subsidiary of General Dynamics that is the prime contractor for the Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarine programs.

Nino DiCosmo

President of the Maritime, Space and Mission Systems division at L3Harris Technologies.

Virginia-class submarines

Nuclear-powered, fast-attack submarines designed for both littoral and deep-sea operations.

Columbia-class submarines

Submarines currently under development that will replace the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines as the cornerstone of the nation's sea-based nuclear deterrent.

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What they’re saying

“The ability for submarines to operate undetected is vital to the U.S. Navy's strategic advantage. With decades of experience in submarine technology and in partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat, L3Harris will deliver highly reliable, undetectable communications systems to enhance operational effectiveness.”

— Nino DiCosmo, President, Maritime, Space and Mission Systems, L3Harris

What’s next

The contract will support production of communication systems for Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines through 2033, with potential for future extensions and support for allied navies.

The takeaway

This contract solidifies L3Harris' position as a leading provider of advanced communication systems for U.S. Navy submarines, supporting the Navy's strategic capabilities and enhancing the operational effectiveness of its submarine fleet.