Groton-based General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB) will remain the prime contractor for the U.S. Navy’s new fleet of nuclear deterrence submarines.

The vehicles will be replacing the current fleet of Ohio-class submarines in commission since the 1980s.

The announcement is part of the Navy’s Submarine Unified Build Strategy, which will guide investment in undersea defense over the next 10-15 years.

GDEB President Jeff Geiger in January said the company plans to make over 1,500 new hires in 2016. He has estimated that the Ohio-replacement program will allow the company to grow from the current 14,000 employees to approximately 18,000 employees by 2030.

GDEB will continue to manufacture the Navy’s Virginia-class submarines as well.