From near famine to economic feast, the value of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is set to grow.

When the Department of Defense included the high-performing shipyard on its list for closure, Maine and New Hampshire responded in horror. Efficient and effective, the shipyard has been contributing to the nation’s defense for more than a century. Its closure made no sense, and the Base Realignment and Closure Commission decided it was worth saving.

Last week, the shipyard started talking about expansion. The commander, Capt. Jonathan Iverson, said the current work force must grow by more than 300 people a year for at least the next four years to meet the demand for work that’s scheduled. The shipyard already employs about 4,440 workers.

With so much work on the books, it’s hard to imagine why the Pentagon slated the facility for closure, and again gives us reason to challenge the decision to close Brunswick Naval Air Station, a mistake that won’t be undone.

Portsmouth’s survival and plans for expansion are good news for the entire state and its economy.