Austal USA marked a major milestone in the future of undersea manufacturing with a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of Phase 1 of its new Module Manufacturing Facility 3, known as MMF3.

The purpose-built facility was constructed under contract with General Dynamics Electric Boat and is dedicated to submarine module production. The project reflects Austal USA’s continued role in supporting the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base and expanding the industrial capacity needed to build the nation’s next-generation submarines.

The new facility includes 390,000 square feet of indoor manufacturing space and will play an important role in supporting the Navy’s goal of delivering one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class submarines each year.

MMF3 is expected to be operational by late 2026. Once online, the facility will increase Austal USA’s capacity to meet the growing demands of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base and strengthen the company’s ability to deliver critical capabilities to the fleet.

Austal USA also recognized G.A. West & Co. and Thompson Engineering for their partnership, collaboration and dedication to utilizing local firms to bring the project to life.

The completion of Phase 1 represents an important step forward for Austal USA, Mobile’s shipbuilding industry and the broader defense manufacturing sector. As MMF3 moves toward full operation, the facility is expected to have a lasting impact on submarine construction efforts and the future of advanced maritime manufacturing in Mobile.