Shipbuilders could see impact from Defense Department cuts

PASCAGOULA — The Department of Defense’s proposed cost-cutting measures could have major implications for shipbuilding in South Mississippi.

As a result of the cuts, some new vessels could be shelved, scrapped or delayed over the next decade.

A few broad details covered in the first five years of a 10-year cost reduction plan were released Thursday, but more information is expected on Feb. 13.

The Sun Herald reports the proposal for a one-year delay in the start of construction on a LHA large-deck amphibious vessel, which is to be built by Huntington Ingalls in Pascagoula. The proposal also calls for proceeding with the Navy’s plans to buy more Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyers from Huntington Ingalls. Officials declined to comment on how the plans could affect the shipyard’s future.