US Virginia class submarines hit further two-year delay as Australia awaits 2030 delivery

The Virginia-class USS North Dakota submarine is seen during bravo sea trials in this US Navy handout picture. The production of new Virginia class submarines a further two years behind schedule, according to the US Government Accountability Office. Photograph: Us Navy/Reuters

A United States nuclear powered submarine program – which Australia is depending on to provide up to five boats under the Aukus deal – has hit a two-year delay.

The latest report from the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) said that performance on the construction of the Block V Virginia class nuclear-powered submarine “continues to degrade”. Supply chain issues, severe workforce shortages and limited physical capacity mean the US is struggling to meet its target of building two ships a year.