5 Facts About Navy Shipyard In Virginia

The United States Navy has a rich history of shipbuilding and repair, and one of its most notable facilities is the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia. Located in Portsmouth, Virginia, this shipyard has been in operation since 1767, making it one of the oldest shipyards in the country. Here are five interesting facts about the Norfolk Naval Shipyard:

1. History and Legacy

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard has a long and storied history that dates back to the American Revolution. In 1767, the Virginia General Assembly authorized the construction of a shipyard on the Elizabeth River, which would eventually become the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Over the years, the shipyard has played a significant role in the country's naval history, including the American Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

Shipbuilding and Repair Capabilities

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the world, with a wide range of capabilities that include:

Shipbuilding: The shipyard has the capability to build a variety of ships, including aircraft carriers, submarines, and surface combatants.
Ship repair: The shipyard can repair and maintain all types of naval vessels, from small patrol boats to large aircraft carriers.
Modernization: The shipyard can modernize and upgrade existing ships to extend their service life and improve their capabilities.
Deactivation: The shipyard can also deactivate and dispose of naval vessels that are no longer needed.

Types of Ships Built at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Over the years, the Norfolk Naval Shipyard has built a wide range of ships, including:

Aircraft carriers: The shipyard has built several aircraft carriers, including the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and the USS George Washington (CVN-73).
Submarines: The shipyard has built several submarines, including the USS Virginia (SSN-774) and the USS Texas (SSN-775).
Surface combatants: The shipyard has built several surface combatants, including the USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) and the USS Cole (DDG-67).

Employment and Economic Impact

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is a major employer in the Hampton Roads region, with a workforce of over 6,000 people. The shipyard also has a significant economic impact on the region, with an annual budget of over $1 billion.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard has faced several environmental and safety concerns over the years, including:

Water pollution: The shipyard has been accused of polluting the Elizabeth River and surrounding waterways with toxic chemicals and heavy metals.
Air pollution: The shipyard has also been accused of polluting the air with toxic chemicals and particulate matter.
Workplace safety: The shipyard has faced several workplace safety incidents over the years, including injuries and fatalities.

Modernization and Expansion

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is currently undergoing a major modernization and expansion effort, which includes:

New dry docks: The shipyard is building new dry docks to accommodate larger and more complex ships.
New cranes: The shipyard is installing new cranes to improve its lifting and moving capabilities.
New facilities: The shipyard is building new facilities to support its growing workforce and improve its efficiency.

Conclusion

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard is a vital part of the United States Navy's shipbuilding and repair capabilities. With its rich history, advanced capabilities, and significant economic impact, the shipyard plays a critical role in supporting the country's naval forces. However, the shipyard also faces several environmental and safety concerns that must be addressed to ensure its continued operation.