Virginia-Class Submarine Program
Construction of the Virginia-class submarines is currently underway at Newport News. The contract for Block III of the class was awarded on Dec. 22, 2008. The first ship of Block III to be delivered by Northrop Grumman is the John Warner (SSN 785). Designed to meet the Navy's requirements in a post-Cold War era, Virginia-class submarines use advanced technologies to increase firepower, maneuverability and stealth. The 377-foot long Virginia-class submarines are capable of submerged speeds of more than 25 knots and can stay submerged for up to three months at a time. Under an innovative agreement, Newport News is producing the Virginia-class submarines as part of a team with General Dynamics Electric Boat. The team has delivered the first five boats of the class.
For more information, please visit our Virginia-Class submarine website.