U.S. Navy to increase production of anti-submarine mines

The United States Navy confirmed plans to increase production of the Hammerhead anti-submarine mine system through a contract modification expected to be awarded to General Dynamics Mission Systems, according to a presolicitation notice released by Naval Sea Systems Command.

The notice states that the Navy intends to modify an existing contract to increase the number of Hammerhead production units available under the program. Officials said the additional systems are required to meet operational fleet requirements beginning in fiscal year 2027.

According to the announcement, the contract modification will be issued using a procurement method that does not involve full and open competition. The Navy determined that General Dynamics Mission Systems is currently the only company capable of providing the additional systems within the required timeframe without causing delays.

The Hammerhead system is a modern underwater mine designed to counter submarines. It is based on a moored-torpedo concept, meaning the weapon remains anchored underwater until its sensors detect a target submarine, at which point it launches a torpedo to engage the threat.

The Navy previously awarded General Dynamics Mission Systems a contract to design, develop, and produce the Hammerhead system. The program is currently moving through production preparations as the government continues to assemble a full technical data package for the platform.

The Navy’s decision to expand production reflects a growing emphasis on undersea warfare capabilities. Submarines remain among the most difficult threats for naval forces to detect and counter, particularly in strategically important maritime corridors.

Hammerhead mines are intended to act as automated anti-submarine defenses capable of detecting, classifying, and engaging enemy submarines without requiring a crewed ship to remain in the immediate area.