[Fido969]

This does not bode well for BIW in Maine. BIW is a vital part of the long-term defense infrastructure, and a vital part of the Maine economy.

[Southack]

If Bath Iron Works is giving Americans the best bang for our terrorism fighting bucks, then Maine's economy has nothing to fear.

[Righty_McRight]

Cut from 7 to 5. We're spending 400billion a year and still the navy shrinks?

[DesertSapper]

As a Northrop Grumman employee it's obvious to whom I would like to see the contract awarded. However, I worry that a narrow focus on such a huge, revolutionary ship design will be a mistake.

The USA needs multiple corporations' input, the ensuing competition for contract segments, and resulting business growth for most. They can and do go together.

We have the best Navy and to keep it we need to avoid these near-sighted decisions. Fund the whole project!!!