Posted inPolitics

Senate approves massive defense bill, but trims number of F-35s

WASHINGTON –  The Senate late Monday approved a $716 billion defense authorization bill that trims the number of F-35’s the Pentagon can purchase this year, but allows for more spending on Electric Boat submarine programs and Sikorsky-made helicopters. “Five percent of our country’s defense spending is done in Connecticut,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal said.

Posted inHousing, Money, News, Politics

Trump budget calls for huge increases in CT-made subs, ‘copters

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s new budget would dramatically boost spending on the Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines built by Electric Boat in Connecticut and sharply increase the Pentagon’s purchase of Sikorsky helicopters in the next federal fiscal year. While those increases may be approved by Congress, much of Trump’s budget was considered DOA.

Posted inMoney, News, Politics

Congress’ efforts to avoid another shutdown feature last-minute deals

Updated at 7:20 p.m.
WASHINGTON — To avoid another government shutdown, the U.S. House on Tuesday passed a spending bill that would fund the Pentagon until the end of the federal fiscal year – with big boosts for the Connecticut defense industry — and keep other federal agencies running until March 23. But approval of the bill is just one maneuver in a complex budget dance between congressional Republicans and Democrats this week that also will feature a face-off between the House and Senate.

Posted inMoney, Politics

Congress turns its sights on budget mess that has special impact in CT

WASHINGTON — Consumed by its effort to pass a federal tax overhaul this week, Congress has failed to pass a budget that would keep the federal government operating past midnight on Friday. Attempts to find a solution to this problem will have their impact in Connecticut, determining how long the state can continue a health program for children and how long its defense contractors can hire new workers.

Posted inNews

Bright future for sub industry, if Navy can find the money

WASHINGTON — Forced to retire aging submarines and facing an increased need for sub to fend off potential threats from China and Russia, the Navy has an ambitious, $100 billion plan that will boost work at Electric Boat. But, despite its strategic vision and detailed timeline for the new fleet of boats, the Navy doesn’t know yet how it will pay for the ambitious program.