Chesapeake expansion will create 32 jobs and increase domestic production of critical naval propulsion systems
RICHMOND, Va. (August 14, 2026) – Defense Maritime Solutions will invest more than $30 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Chesapeake, creating 32 jobs and strengthening the domestic production of critical naval propulsion systems.
The project will expand U.S.-based manufacturing and testing capabilities for Wärtsilä medium-speed engines. The increased capacity will help DMS serve the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and other government fleets while reducing its reliance on offshore production.
“Defense Maritime Solutions’ expansion in Chesapeake strengthens both Virginia’s economy and our nation’s national security,” said Gov. Abigail Spanberger. “By increasing domestic production of critical ship systems, DMS is strengthening America’s defense supply chain, creating new opportunities for hardworking Virginians and reinforcing Hampton Roads as our nation’s premier defense hub.”
DMS Expands Domestic Naval Engine Manufacturing
Defense Maritime Solutions manufactures and supplies shipboard energy and propulsion systems for military and government customers.
Through the Chesapeake expansion, the company will develop domestic production and testing capabilities for Wärtsilä medium-speed engines. The investment is expected to improve supply chain resilience and provide customers with greater access to U.S.-based manufacturing support.
“This project is a strategic investment in our customers, our workforce and the future of the U.S. maritime industrial base,” said Defense Maritime Solutions President Noble Davidson.
“Developing U.S.-based production and testing capabilities for Wärtsilä medium-speed engines in Chesapeake will allow us to better support the Navy, Coast Guard and other government fleets while strengthening supply chain resilience and creating highly skilled manufacturing careers,” Davidson said.
Expansion Supports Allied Shipbuilding Capacity
The investment will also align with the objectives of the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort, a trilateral agreement among the United States, Canada and Finland.
Led by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the initiative is designed to strengthen domestic and allied shipbuilding capacity and improve the participating countries’ ability to develop and produce icebreakers and other specialized vessels.
The project supports broader efforts to increase American production of critical ship systems and reduce dependence on foreign manufacturing capacity.
Chesapeake Project Creates Skilled Manufacturing Jobs
Defense Maritime Solutions will create 32 jobs through the expansion, adding new opportunities in advanced manufacturing, engineering, testing and maritime technology.
“Virginia offers manufacturers like Defense Maritime Solutions the assets they need to succeed: a skilled workforce that leads the defense industry, world-class port and logistics infrastructure and unmatched proximity to military customers and decision-makers,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery.
Chenery said the project demonstrates the company’s confidence in Virginia’s defense industrial base and the Commonwealth’s ability to support long-term manufacturing growth.
Defense Maritime Solutions Builds on Virginia Roots
Established in 1979, Defense Maritime Solutions is headquartered in Chesapeake and maintains additional operations in Poulsbo, Washington, and San Diego.
The company supports operations at several of the U.S. Navy’s largest bases. Its government customers also include the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other federal defense and maritime agencies.
“Chesapeake has long been a city where innovation and maritime industry go hand in hand, and Defense Maritime Solutions’ continued investment is another example of that legacy in action,” said Chesapeake Mayor Rick West.
“Their expansion illustrates the confidence that long-standing employers have in Chesapeake’s workforce and pro-business climate, and it will help create new jobs and opportunities for our residents,” West said.
Investment Strengthens Hampton Roads Defense Industry
Regional leaders said the project will reinforce Hampton Roads’ position as a national center for defense manufacturing, maritime technology and shipbuilding innovation.
“Defense Maritime Solutions’ continued growth reflects the strength of Hampton Roads’ skilled workforce, world-class defense industrial base and collaborative business environment,” said Hampton Roads Alliance President and CEO Douglas L. Smith.
“This investment advances our strategy to grow nationally competitive defense, energy, aerospace and logistics industries while reinforcing Hampton Roads’ position as a leading hub for defense innovation and advanced manufacturing,” Smith said.
Virginia Supports Chesapeake Manufacturing Expansion
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Chesapeake and the Hampton Roads Alliance to secure the project.
Gov. Spanberger approved a $300,000 performance-based grant through the Virginia Investment Performance Grant program. The incentive encourages established Virginia companies to make additional capital investments in the Commonwealth.
The Virginia Jobs Investment Program will also provide funding and services supporting employee recruitment and training activities.
About Defense Maritime Solutions
Defense Maritime Solutions is a naval original equipment manufacturer specializing in shipboard energy and propulsion systems.
Headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, the company provides manufacturing, engineering and technical support for military and government fleets. DMS serves customers from locations in Virginia, Washington and California.
