The Navy has awarded a landmark weapon system contract to General Dynamics Electric Boat, a potential $5.1 billion deal that commits the government to proceeding with development of a new-generation ballistic missile submarine and pressing ahead with a $127 billion modernization program that is on course to squeeze future funding for conventional Navy modernization plans. On Sept. 21, the Navy awarded the contract for integrated product and process development of the Columbia-class submarine, the service's No. 1 acquisition priority set...
