New Command Established for Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Construction

In a move set to revolutionize naval infrastructure, the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) inaugurated a new command, Officer in Charge of Construction Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (OICC PSNS). The ceremony took place on August 28 at the Naval Undersea Warfare Museum, Keyport, Washington.

The new command will spearhead the Navy's most extensive infrastructure project within the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), encompassing contracting, engineering, and construction. Capt. Troy Brown took the helm as the first commanding officer, leading a dedicated team tasked with overseeing the comprehensive upgrade of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF), with a major focus on the historic construction of the Multi-Mission Dry Dock.

“Today, we are not just standing up a new command – we are building upon the legacy started by Lt. Ambrose B. Wycoff and the people of Bremerton in 1891 when this station originated and the courageous contractors who began constructing Dry Dock 1 in 1892,” Brown shared. “Together, we are embarking on a new journey to modernize the shipyard and deliver the Multi-Mission Dry Dock – the Navy’s largest single shore infrastructure investment and most significant project in the modern history of the Pacific Northwest. Together, we will build our future.”

The Multi-Mission Dry Dock project involves constructing a cutting-edge facility to accommodate the Navy's newest Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, alongside current Nimitz-class carriers and various warships. The project also includes the development of piers, wharves, moorings, cranes, buildings, and support facilities at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton and NBK-Bangor.

The project is presently in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, with a decision expected by late 2026. Construction is slated to commence in spring 2028. Through SIOP, the Navy aims to enhance throughput at its four public shipyards, revamping their physical layout, upgrading dry docks, and integrating modern technology to boost productivity and safety.

“OICC PSNS is charged with modernizing shipyard infrastructure needed to maintain the next generation of ships and submarines, and rebuilding the vital foundation from the ground up,” stated Rear Adm. Omarr Tobias, NAVFAC Pacific commander. “What we build here over the next decade is not just concrete and steel – it represents the foundation of warfighting capability, and we are ultimately giving our Sailors an asymmetric edge, ready platforms, and the strategic advantage they need to deter any adversary, anywhere, at any time. By delivering the Multi-Mission Dry Dock, we are forging a world-class ‘Foundry’ that will sustain, modernize, and ready our global Fleet for the next century.”

The existing dry docks at PSNS & IMF are unable to accommodate the future fleet of nuclear-powered vessels, particularly the larger Gerald R. Ford-class carriers. The new dry dock's enhanced features are tailored to meet the upcoming maintenance needs, with advanced dimensions and systems for efficiency.

“Our mission is clear, our focus absolute: we will deliver the foundation of Fleet readiness at PSNS & IMF,” Brown emphasized. “The task before us is monumental, but our resolve is unbreakable. We will build with urgency, lead with integrity, and deliver with precision.”

For inquiries about the project, contact the NAVFAC Northwest Public Affairs Office at navfacnwpao@us.navy.mil.

– USN –

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command provides naval shore facilities, base operating support, and expeditionary engineering systems aligned with fleet and Marine Corps priorities. Stay updated at Facebook and LinkedIn.