General Dynamics Electric Boat has officially delivered the 24th Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast attack submarine, the USS Iowa (SSN 797), to the US Navy. The transfer marks a significant milestone in the Virginia-class program, which aims to bolster the Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities.
The USS Iowa will undergo rigorous evaluations and crew preparations before its formal induction into active service. This submarine is the 13th Virginia-class vessel developed by General Dynamics, with the remaining half of the fleet being constructed by HII Newport News Shipbuilding.
The $17.8 billion contract for the Iowa and nine other submarines was awarded in 2014 to the consortium led by General Dynamics and HII. The keel for the Iowa was laid in 2019, with the launch taking place in 2023.
Notably, the USS Iowa is the sixth submarine to feature the Block IV configuration, which enhances mission readiness and firepower. This upgrade includes 12 vertical launch systems for Tomahawk cruise missiles and four additional torpedo tubes capable of deploying Mk-48 or UGM-84 Harpoon warheads.
“The Virginia-class submarine represents a Navy and industry commitment to deliver warfighting excellence to the fleet,” said Capt. Mike Hollenbach, Virginia Class Submarine Program Manager, during the handover in late December.
The Virginia-class submarines are set to replace the aging Los Angeles-class fleet and will serve the Navy through the 2070s. Powered by a 280,000-horsepower nuclear reactor, these vessels can achieve speeds of 29 miles per hour and depths of 800 feet. Their capabilities are critical for securing the United States’ undersea advantage for decades to come.