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With new paint and grease, Navy tries to lengthen subs’ life

GROTON, Conn. — As it tries to get the most out of each of its $2.6 billion attack submarines, the U.S. Navy is finding a lot depends on the right paint job.

A new painting process that helps keep marine life from fouling the hulls is among dozens of innovations aimed at reducing the maintenance needs for attack submarines, which are coming out of service faster than they can be replaced.

“They’re not very glamorous but they’re huge in terms of payback to the fleet,” said Navy Capt. Mike Stevens, a manager for the Virginia-class submarine program at Naval Sea Systems Command.