Navy Awarded Textron Systems $230 Million Contract

The U.S. Navy tapped Textron Systems to build two additional Ship-to-Shore Connector craft in New Orleans.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Military Jobs

A partially completed steel amphibious craft hull sits in an industrial shipyard dock under bright, overcast daylight. — The U.S. Navy has awarded Textron Systems a $230 million contract modification to produce two additional Ship-to-Shore Connector craft in New Orleans. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The U.S. Navy has awarded Textron Systems a $230 million contract modification for the production of two new Ship-to-Shore Connector craft. These vessels are essential for transporting personnel and equipment from amphibious ships to land.

Why it matters

These craft enhance naval logistical capabilities by allowing personnel and materials to be moved rapidly from ships to shore. The design enhancements focus on increasing speed and payload capacity for complex amphibious missions.

The $230 million contract covers two Ship-to-Shore Connector craft, adding to the 18 previously delivered vessels. Currently, 13 additional craft remain in various stages of testing and production.

The players

Textron Systems

This subsidiary of Textron Inc. specializes in defense and aerospace technologies including marine systems and unmanned vehicles.

United States Navy

The maritime branch of the United States Armed Forces manages the acquisition and deployment of naval combat and support vessels.

The details

Textron Systems will handle the engineering, manufacturing, and testing operations at its New Orleans shipyard. The upgraded craft are designed to navigate effectively to reach a large percentage of the world's coastline.

The contract modification was officially awarded on October 6, 2026.

Market Landscape

This order continues the modernization of the Navy's amphibious fleet by replacing legacy systems with high-speed, high-capacity connectors. It strengthens Textron Systems' role as a primary supplier in the defense maritime industrial base.

This production expansion supports local high-skilled manufacturing jobs in the New Orleans shipyard sector. The contract ensures ongoing industrial activity and steady employment levels for the local workforce.

The takeaway

The continued expansion of the Ship-to-Shore Connector fleet highlights the ongoing investment in versatile maritime transport technologies. These advancements provide the Navy with the capacity to reach difficult coastlines more efficiently during amphibious operations.