Defense Business Briefing -- Jan. 16, 2024

Welcome to today's Defense Business Briefing, your weekly roundup of the latest defense industry news.

This week's top story

DOD's first National Defense Industrial Strategy targets next three to five years

The Pentagon has released its first-ever National Defense Industrial Strategy aiming to boost U.S. weapons manufacturing within the next three to five years. Some defense industry advocates, however, say the strategy must be followed up by more detailed investment plans.

News & notes

Fincantieri several hundred workers short, has yet to begin construction of second frigate

The Constellation-class frigate program has a labor shortage of several hundred workers and is facing schedule challenges, with construction of the second vessel yet to begin, a program official said today.

Pentagon details process to submit CMMC assessment results as part of information collection request

The Defense Department is asking for input on the process to report assessment results under its Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program and proposed parameters to address potential gaps.

HII delivers first Columbia stern to shipbuilding partner Electric Boat

Shipbuilder HII has delivered the stern of the lead Columbia-class submarine to its construction partner, General Dynamics Electric Boat, according to HII President and CEO Chris Kastner.

What's happening

The week ahead

Senior defense officials are scheduled to speak around the Washington area this week.

For Inside Defense subscribers

SECNAV orders shipbuilding assessment, citing concern for Columbia and frigate programs

Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has directed an analysis of shipbuilding challenges, according to a Thursday announcement that cites concern for the Columbia-class submarine and Constellation-class frigate programs.

Del Toro: At-sea re-arming will be operational in 2-3 years

The Navy is on path to develop and operationalize technology enabling a supply vessel to re-arm a warship's missile tubes while underway at sea within the next two to three years, according to service Secretary Carlos Del Toro.