Navy Appoints New Submarine Portfolio Manager to Address Delays and Workforce Shortages

The Pentagon has appointed Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher as the first-ever submarine ‘czar’, with the Navy citing workforce shortages and supply chain challenges as major factors contributing to delays in submarine construction. Gaucher will oversee production of both Virginia and Columbia-class submarines, following a series of delays and setbacks in the program. Breaking Defense reported on Gaucher’s appointment in January, and he took office on February 23. The Navy has struggled to keep pace with demand for new submarines, with the fourth and fifth blocks of Virginia-class submarines being roughly 36 and 24 months late, respectively.