US Navy’s Shipbuilder Boosts Output 15% With AI and Robotics—Here’s How
HII targets a 15% increase in shipyard throughput this year using robotics, AI, and outsourcing to meet US Navy demand.
HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the United States, has announced plans to boost its shipyard output by 15% this year through a combination of workforce expansion, facility upgrades, and advanced technologies. The company, which operates the Ingalls and Newport News shipyards, achieved a 14% increase in throughput in 2025 and now aims to build on that progress as it works to deliver vessels to the U.S. Navy more efficiently.
Currently, HII has 40 ships in active construction or modernization across its facilities. To meet this demand, the company is focusing on three key areas: hiring and retaining skilled workers, modernizing shipyard infrastructure, and expanding its network of suppliers. Rather than relying solely on additional labor or extended work hours, HII is rethinking its production processes to improve efficiency.
Technology and automation at the core of expansion: shipyard output
A major part of HII’s strategy involves integrating physical AI—systems designed to perform real-world tasks such as robotics, automated production, and inspection. These technologies are expected to accelerate shipbuilding while reducing dependence on manual labor. The company is also investing in shipyard upgrades to support higher production volumes without simply adding more workers or shifts.
“With approximately 40 ships at Ingalls and Newport News in active construction or modernization, our focus in 2026 is clear: we must build on this momentum and continue delivering ships at a greater pace to the U.S. Navy,” said Eric Chewning, HII’s executive vice president of maritime systems and corporate strategy.
Workforce retention and outsourcing to support growth
Despite its push for automation, HII is not reducing its workforce. Skilled labor remains critical to its operations, and the company has secured new collective bargaining agreements to offer competitive wage increases. These measures aim to retain experienced shipbuilders and attract new talent to skilled trades.
In addition to internal improvements, HII plans to outsource more than 2 million hours of work in 2026—a 178% increase compared to 2024. This distributed approach will spread production across a wider network of suppliers, including small and medium-sized manufacturers, while reducing bottlenecks at HII’s own facilities. The strategy is expected to increase overall shipbuilding capacity and strengthen the broader U.S. defense manufacturing sector.
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