| DEI Document | Aug. 06, 2020 |
| DEI [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 6, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | HUNTINGTON INGALLS INDUSTRIES, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-34910 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 90-0607005 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4101 Washington Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Newport News |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 23607 |
| City Area Code | 757 |
| Local Phone Number | 380-2000 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | HII |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001501585 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
