U.S. Navy Commissions First Submarine Designed for Coed Crews

The U.S. Navy commissioned its newest fast-attack Virginia-class submarine, USS New Jersey (SSN 796), in a ceremony held Saturday at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey.

The vessel marks a significant milestone as the first U.S. Navy submarine specifically designed to accommodate both male and female crews. Commanding Officer Cmdr. Steve Halle called the event “a truly historic moment.”

“Our superior professionalism is enhanced by our crew integration and our diversity. We have exceeded expectations at every turn and overcome every obstacle set before us,” he said.

While the USS New Jersey is the 23rd Virginia-class submarine to be built and delivered, it is the first of its kind to be designed from the keel up with specific modifications for gender integration.

The submarine features modifications to enhance privacy in berthing compartments and improve overall living conditions for all sailors, including steps for reaching triple-high bunk beds and adjustments to overhead valve heights. These changes reflect the Navy’s commitment to gender integration, which began in 2010 when the ban on women serving aboard submarines was lifted.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, hailed the commissioning as a historic milestone, stating, “Fully integrating women into the submarine force has increased the Navy’s talent pool, improved readiness, created new career pathways for female leaders, and strengthened national security.”

The 377-foot-long submarine, capable of diving to depths greater than 800 feet and operating at speeds exceeding 25 knots, joins a fleet of fast-attack submarines designed for multiple missions, including anti-submarine warfare, strike warfare, and special operations.

The construction of the Virginia-class submarines involves a unique collaboration between General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII-Newport News Shipbuilding, with both companies building different sections and alternating deliveries. The USS New Jersey (SSN 796), christened at Newport News Shipbuilding in November 2021m is the 11th Virginia-class submarine delivered by HII-NNS.

The submarine also becomes the third U.S. Navy ship named after the state of New Jersey, the most recent being the decorated battleship BB-62 which saw action during WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

“I know that the legacy we have inherited from the state of New Jersey and BB-62 will carry forward in our pursuit of greatness,” Cmdr Halle said in his speech. “Today, we commissioned our ship, and she is the fastest, most advanced, fully integrated fast-attack to date.”

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up