GOOSE CREEK, S.C. — The nation’s largest military shipbuilder began operations in South Carolina on Monday.

Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) unveiled plans in December to acquire W International’s manufacturing facility and its associated assets in Goose Creek.

Since the announcement, the company reports more than 99% of the legacy workforce have accepted offers to continue working on site.

The 480,000 square foot facility will work to support the construction of submarine modules and aircraft carriers for the United States Navy.

“The dedicated shipbuilders in the Charleston area are part of a highly skilled workforce that will propel our nation forward,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C. “This innovation and modernization in our defense industrial base will create jobs and draw resources to our state’s already robust Navy presence.”

HII also plans to open hundreds of job positions alongside state and local leadership.