News Summary

HII has finalized its acquisition of W International SC LLC and Vivid Empire SC LLC, now operating as Newport News Shipbuilding – Charleston Operations. This strategic move bolsters HII’s shipbuilding capacity, allowing for increased production to meet U.S. Navy demands. The acquisition, which retains 99% of the workforce, enhances the local economy with over 125 new jobs. With a 45-acre facility and significant investment in technology, HII aims to advance its shipbuilding capabilities in line with national defense objectives.

South Carolina

HII has completed its acquisition of W International SC LLC and Vivid Empire SC LLC, which will now operate under the new name Newport News Shipbuilding – Charleston Operations. This strategic move, announced in December 2024, was officially finalized on January 28, 2025, as part of HII’s efforts to bolster its shipbuilding capabilities.

The acquisition allows HII, recognized as the largest military shipbuilder in the United States, to expand its operational capacity to meet increasing demands from the U.S. Navy. HII aims to enhance production rates significantly, particularly in light of the commitments made under the AUKUS agreements, which involve collaboration between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Workforce and Capacity Enhancements

A critical factor in the success of this acquisition is the seamless integration of the existing workforce. Notably, 99% of the former W International employees opted to continue their employment at the Charleston facility after the acquisition. This continuity provides HII with a ready pool of skilled workers to support upcoming projects, including the construction of nuclear-powered submarine modules and aircraft carrier units for the U.S. Navy.

The new facility spans 45 acres and features over 480,000 square feet of manufacturing space, conveniently situated with direct access to barge and rail transportation. As part of the acquisition, HII will invest in state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, tooling, and infrastructure, further enhancing the facility’s production capabilities.

Economic Impact

This acquisition is poised to have a significant positive impact on the economy of South Carolina. With an emphasis on the importance of the shipbuilding industry, the investment is expected to create over 125 new job opportunities in the state. Local leaders have recognized the expansion as a critical factor in underpinning South Carolina’s vital role within the national defense industrial base, contributing to enhanced national security.

Key political figures have expressed support for the acquisition, with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham highlighting its potential benefits for the local economy and the shipbuilding sector. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Tim Scott pointed to the importance of the skilled labor force in Charleston and the broader implications for the nation’s security and defense capabilities.

Summary of Acquisition Details

While the financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed in the announcement, the deal marks a significant milestone for HII as it secures a more robust operational base in Charleston. The company’s strategic expansion aligns with its mission to meet the evolving needs of the U.S. military, enabling it to take on larger and more sophisticated projects in the future.

As HII integrates the new operations into its existing framework, the focus remains on leveraging the enhanced capabilities and experienced workforce to drive forward a new era of shipbuilding excellence in South Carolina. This acquisition underscores both the commitment to quality in defense contracting and the importance of maintaining a competitive edge in military readiness.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The State
• Wikipedia: South Carolina
• Forbes Best Employers
• Google Search: South Carolina economy
• Greenville Business Magazine
• Google Scholar: South Carolina shipbuilding
• iHeart: Best Places to Find a Job in 2025
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

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