The Navy plans to invest roughly $132 billion to acquire 12 Columbia class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. The shipbuilders are also constructing Virginia class attack submarines. Both classes are part of the Navy’s plans for deterrence. Challenges delivering Columbia class submarines on time could have consequences for the nation’s defense. This report examines the extent that (1) the Navy and DOD assessed risks to achieving the lead Columbia class submarine’s schedule, and (2) the program faced challenges constructing the lead submarine and mitigating construction risks to the class. GAO is making six recommendations, including that the Navy conduct a schedule risk analysis and update long-term plans.