Gulf Copper & Manufacturing Corporation has expanded its partnership with HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division to support construction of Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers for the U.S. Navy, according to a statement from the shipyard released Nov. 10.
The expanded agreement follows a year-long pilot program between the two companies and will see Gulf Copper fabricating select outfitted structural units at its Port Arthur and Galveston, Texas, facilities. The company said the new contract further strengthens its role as a trusted supplier within the Navy’s shipbuilding industrial base.
The agreement stems from a recently executed five-year Strategic Sourcing Agreement with HII. Gulf Copper said the partnership highlights its capacity to deliver complex, high-precision components across multiple locations while meeting the rigorous demands of national defense programs, while also reflecting its continued investment in workforce development and infrastructure along the Gulf Coast.
“This project is close to home,” said George R. Harris, Gulf Copper program manager and retired Navy sailor. “To be entrusted by HII with an expanded role on a project of this magnitude is both an honor and a responsibility we take very seriously. It is truly inspiring to support the greatest military in the world, and this effort represents the skill, dedication, and pride of our workforce in helping to keep our service members safe.”
The Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, built by HII and General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, are among the most advanced surface combatants in the Navy fleet, Gulf Copper noted. Designed for multi-mission operations, the ships feature upgraded AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar systems and advanced power and cooling capabilities to support next-generation weapons and sensors.
In June, Canadian-based shipbuilder Davie, announced its intention to acquire Gulf Copper’s shipyard assets in Galveston and Port Arthur, Texas, marking its expansion into the U.S. shipbuilding market. The deal is currently pending regulatory and land lease approvals, and includes plans for a $1 billion investment to modernize and expand the sites, potentially creating up to 4,000 jobs across the region, the shipyard said.
