January 29, 2025

HII Expands Manufacturing Footprint in South Carolina

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News Summary

HII has acquired an advanced manufacturing facility in Goose Creek, SC, rebranding it as Newport News Shipbuilding — Charleston Operations. The facility will enhance shipbuilding capacity for the U.S. Navy and support job creation, ensuring 99% of the legacy workforce remains. This strategic move promises significant impacts on both the local economy and national defense capabilities.

HII Expands Manufacturing Footprint in South Carolina

In a significant move to enhance the shipbuilding capabilities of the United States, HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the nation, has officially completed the acquisition of an advanced manufacturing facility located in Goose Creek, South Carolina. This strategic acquisition is expected to have profound effects on shipbuilding capacity and production throughput, specifically for the U.S. Navy and other national security endeavors.

New Beginnings at Charleston Operations

The newly acquired facility has been rebranded as Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) — Charleston Operations. Spanning an impressive 45 acres, this site boasts over 480,000 square feet of dedicated manufacturing space, enabling direct access to vital transportation routes such as barge and rail. This will facilitate efficient logistics and enhance HII’s ability to meet shipbuilding demands.

Commitment to Workforce and Job Creation

One major highlight of this acquisition is HII’s commitment to maintaining a robust workforce. Reports indicate that over 99% of the legacy workforce have accepted offers to remain at the facility, ensuring continuity of expertise in constructing vital components such as nuclear-powered submarine modules and aircraft carrier units. In addition to preserving current jobs, HII has plans to create hundreds of new positions in collaboration with local and state authorities, which will cater to the growing demands of national security.

A Vision for Enhanced Manufacturing

The new manufacturing site is equipped with state-of-the-art production facilities, cutting-edge manufacturing equipment, and advanced tooling. HII aims to leverage this technological advantage to bolster its ongoing shipbuilding operations and strengthen its position within the defense industrial base. This acquisition is more than just an expansion; it signifies HII’s intent to align labor resources strategically for maximum manufacturing efficiency.

A Boost to the Local Economy

The impact of this acquisition extends beyond HII and its workforce. U.S. Senators from South Carolina have hailed the move as a significant contributor to the local economy and an essential factor in enhancing the nation’s defense capabilities. Jobs brought by this expansion are poised to stimulate economic growth in the Goose Creek area and encourage further industrial development within South Carolina.

HII’s Long-Standing Legacy

Founded over 135 years ago, HII has a storied history of advancing U.S. national security initiatives. With a workforce of approximately 44,000, the company is well-positioned to tackle the challenges of modern military shipbuilding. This acquisition aligns perfectly with HII’s mission of expanding its operational footprint while keeping pace with the needs of national defense.

Looking Ahead

The financial specifics of the acquisition have not been publicly disclosed. However, industry analysts anticipate that this facility will play a crucial role in HII’s future endeavors to enhance shipbuilding operations. With growing demands for advanced naval capabilities, HII’s proactive approach in South Carolina highlights its commitment to fortifying the nation’s military readiness.

As HII integrates its new Charleston Operations into its broader strategic framework, the ripple effects from this acquisition are expected to reverberate throughout the defense sector, delivering both immediate and long-term benefits for the national security landscape.