The U.S. Navy has unveiled a $3.5 billion plan to procure 2,800 small boats over the next decade, aiming to stabilize domestic shipyards, enhance operational readiness, and increase competition among suppliers.
The initiative accelerates parallel competitions across a broader vendor base, ensuring steady support for U.S. boatyards while meeting waterfront readiness requirements.
A recently released Request for Information (RFI) outlines a diverse portfolio, including aluminum oil-spill response boats, Naval Special Warfare (NSW) 8- and 11-meter surface support craft, force-protection boats, dive support craft, high-speed maneuvering targets, as well as steel workboats, tugs, barges, lighters, and floating cranes. The Navy anticipates 2,800 hulls across FY26–FY36, with annual purchases of skimmers, utility boats, targets, and service craft designed to maintain fleet sustainment and training. Deliveries will focus on San Diego and Williamsburg stock points, with options for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) variants and familiarization packages.
