The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Tennessee returns to its homeport at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., following a strategic deterrent patrol. The vessel is capable of carrying up to 20 submarine-launched ballistic missiles with multiple warheads. Photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Bryan Tomforde/U.S. Navy

Oct. 24 (UPI) -- General Dynamics Mission Systems has received a $19 million contract to service U.S. and British Royal Navy ballistic missile submarines.

The cost-plus-incentive-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract, announced on Tuesday by the Department of Defense, covers research and development, and sustainment to the fire control sub-systems aboard the submarines, as well as for the attack weapon control system on the U.S. submarine.


The fire control system helps the weapons system to locate the missile's target.

U.S. submarines carry up to 154, non-nuclear, rapidly launching Tomhawk cruise missiles. By design, Tomhawk missiles fly low altitudes, for up to 1,000 miles.

Additionally, data systems on both the U.S. and U.K. vessels will receive training and support equipment.

The contractor will also deliver training and support equipment for the U.S. and U.K .Shipboard Data Systems

General Dynamics has been obligated fiscal 2019 Navy procurement funds in the amount of $7.9 million, fiscal 2019 Navy operations and maintenance funds and United Kingdom funds of $2.6 million at the time of the award. Of this, $406,801 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.

Subject to the availability of funding, the company could receive another $7.6 million from 2019 Navy operations and maintenance funds, which would also expire at the end of the current fiscal year.

Work on the contract is expected to be completed by September 2019.