General Dynamics

General Dynamics is, as of Fiscal Year 2011, the fourth largest American defense contractor. Formed by the 1952 merger of Electric Boat shipbuilding and Consolidated Vultee aircraft, General Dynamics produces or has produced the M-1 tank, the F-111 and F-16 aircraft, and many of the Los Angeles-, Ohio-, Seawolf-, and Virginia-class submarines. Currently, General Dynamics’ portfolio includes four major divisions: (1) aerospace, (2) combat systems, (3) information systems and technology, and (4) marine systems. The firm remains a leader in land, air, and information-based technology. This entry examines the history of General Dynamics and discusses current products.