Newport News, Va. March 4, 2025 Highlighting its commitment to innovation and tradition, HII (NYSE: HII), one of the largest military shipbuilders in America, recently achieved a significant milestone at its Newport News Shipbuilding division. The company announced the successful installation of the first valve manifold assembly produced using additive manufacturing technology on a new construction aircraft carrier. This accomplishment signifies a noteworthy advancement in modern naval shipbuilding, underscoring HII’s dedication to integrating cutting-edge technologies into the shipbuilding process.
Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is revolutionizing the way components are produced in the defense industry. By using this technology, HII can enhance production efficiency, reduce material waste, and streamline logistics. The valve manifold assembly plays a critical role in controlling various systems aboard naval vessels, thus its successful installation marks a step towards advancing the operational capabilities of future aircraft carriers.
“This installation represents a pivotal moment for the future of naval shipbuilding,” said a HII spokesperson. “By leveraging innovative technologies like additive manufacturing, we are not only improving our manufacturing processes but also creating a more agile and responsive shipbuilding environment. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented shipbuilders.”
In addition to this groundbreaking installation, HII is also celebrating significant accomplishments at its Ingalls Shipbuilding division. On November 22, 2024, the company authenticated the keel of the guided missile destroyer, Sam Nunn (DDG 133), named after the esteemed former U.S. senator from Georgia and co-founder of the Nuclear Threat Initiative. The keel-laying ceremony was a spirited affirmation of HII’s ongoing commitment to uphold the legacy of American naval strength.
Notably attending the ceremony, Samuel Nunn Jr. expressed his pride in the ship, while his daughter, Michelle Nunn, served as the ship s sponsor. The Sam Nunn is part of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer series, designed to provide multi-dimensional maritime defense capabilities.
Both of these notable achievements highlight HII s effective blend of tradition and innovation. The successful integration of additive manufacturing signifies a shift toward a more modern and efficient shipbuilding process, while the keel laying of the Sam Nunn honors the legacy of those who have laid the foundational policies guiding U.S. defense initiatives.
In addition, during National Apprenticeship Week, celebrated from November 17-23, 2024, HII underscored its commitment to workforce development and the vital role of apprenticeship programs in nurturing future talent within the industry. HII emphasized that skilled workers are essential for the continued excellence of defense manufacturing and shipbuilding, showcasing the corporation s dual focus on innovation and the education of future generations.
As HII continues to navigate the changing waters of military shipbuilding, it stands firm on its mission to deliver superior defense solutions, embracing new technologies while honoring the proud traditions of the past. With initiatives like additive manufacturing and strong community engagement in workforce training, HII is poised to lead the industry into a new era of naval warfare capabilities.
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