Newport News Shipbuilding is experiencing unprecedented activity, with 25 U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and submarines currently in production, marking the busiest period in over 40 years. Despite ongoing challenges, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the shipyard is making significant progress on several key projects.

Among the notable constructions are the aircraft carriers Enterprise (CVN 80) and Doris Miller (CVN 81), both actively under construction. The John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) is now 84% complete, while the George Washington (CVN 73) is nearing the end of its refueling and complex overhaul at 92% completion. Additionally, the submarine Montana (SSN 794) is set to be delivered to the Navy in 2022.

The shipyard's foundry has recently completed the first casting for the Wisconsin (SSBN 827), the second submarine in the Columbia class program, which is expected to span the next two decades. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time in over 50 years that ballistic missile submarine construction has resumed at Newport News Shipbuilding. The foundry is also in the process of molding additional castings for Wisconsin, with all lead ship castings for the Columbia class expected to be completed next year.

In a move to enhance efficiency, shipbuilders have implemented a new propeller nut installation rigging fixture during the refueling and complex overhaul of the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). This innovative process is crucial for the safe removal and reinstallation of propellers, ensuring precise alignment and integrity.

On October 8, Newport News Shipbuilding honored 394 recipients of the 2021 Model of Excellence Award during a drive-in ceremony at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. This award, the company's highest honor, recognizes individuals and teams for their extraordinary contributions to the shipyard's strategic objectives.

Additionally, Newport News Shipbuilding commemorated the historical significance of a trolley service that once connected Hilton Village and downtown Newport News. A recent ceremony unveiled a historical marker honoring this transportation link, which played a vital role in supporting shipbuilders and their families during World War I. The trolley service, which began in 1918, was eventually replaced by bus service, with all tracks removed by 1950. The former trolley turnaround now serves as a roundabout for modern traffic.