US Navy Commissions 24th Virginia-Class Fast-Attack Nuclear Submarine USS Iowa SSN 797
The Navy officially commissioned its latest Virginia-class rapid attack submarine, the Iowa, during a ceremony on Saturday in Groton, Connecticut.
The 377-foot submarine was built by General Dynamics Electric Boat for deep dives over 800 feet. It can travel faster than 25 knots—about 29 miles per hour underwater.
The USS Iowa carries Tomahawk cruise missiles and runs on a nuclear reactor that never needs refuelling. A Navy statement praised its long-range firepower and energy efficiency.
The Virginia-class design includes a roomy lock-in/lock-out chamber for special forces divers. It also has a flexible torpedo room and can launch unmanned undersea vehicles.
“Navy warfare is clearly changing,” said Navy Secretary John Phelan at the ship’s commissioning. “Battleships once ruled the oceans, but submarines now give us unmatched stealth and power.”
Big moment for USS Iowa
“This isn’t just a big moment for USS Iowa,” he added. “It strengthens the Navy and protects America’s leadership on the world’s oceans.” 135 dedicated sailors crew the new submarine. It’s the first Navy vessel named Iowa since the famous World War II battleship BB-61.
“In the upcoming year, this contingent of esteemed American sailors will deploy this warship, bearing the name ‘Iowa’, to distant regions worldwide, projecting combat power for decades ahead,” stated Adm. Daryl Caudle, U.S. Fleet Forces commander, during the event.
The intrepid warriors preceding me transformed this nearly 8,000-tonne metal structure equipped with extensive fibre, cable, and pipe systems into a combat vessel—a warship engineered to decisively secure our nation’s victories.
U.S. Navy
Your preparation and execution to bring this ship to commissioning day is truly remarkable. U.S. Navy fast attack submarines help maintain control of the sea, project power, ensure maritime security, have a presence in key areas, and deter threats, as mentioned in the service release.
These submarines can handle many missions, from anti-submarine and strike roles to surveillance and special operations. In addition, they support intelligence gathering, reconnaissance missions, and mine warfare when the situation demands it.
Above all, “this day means everything—not just for the sub, but also for the wonderful people of Iowa,” said Cmdr Gregory Coy. The USS Iowa’s commanding officer spoke proudly about his crew and their connection to the Hawkeye State.
“To the plank owners, shipbuilders, commissioning committee, and leaders of our Navy and Submarine Force, this submarine is yours.”
References
- U.S. Navy Commissions USS Iowa (SSN 797) – U.S. Navy Official Website
- Virginia-Class Attack Submarine – SSN – U.S. Navy Fact File
- General Dynamics Electric Boat – Virginia-Class Submarines – General Dynamics Electric Boat
- USS Iowa (SSN 797) Commissioned in Groton – CNN
- The Future of Naval Warfare: Submarines Take Centre Stage – Defense News
About the Author
