The U.S. Navy’s newest attack submarine, the future USS Iowa (SSN 797), was officially delivered on Dec. 22, marking the 12th battle force ship handed over to the Navy this year. Iowa is the 24th Virginia-class submarine, a class of vessels coproduced by General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB) and HII Newport News Shipbuilding under a long-standing collaboration.
The pre-commissioning unit (PCU) Iowa arrived at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn., on Dec. 19 and was was delivered to Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 4
The new attack submarine signifies a major step forward in the Navy’s ongoing efforts to bolster its undersea capabilities, the Navy said in a statement. The delivery marks the formal transfer of USS Iowa from the shipbuilder to the Navy, setting the stage for the next phase of testing and trials before the vessel enters active service.
“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. “Iowa is the second Virginia-class submarine delivered this year. With each delivery, the Navy continues to strengthen our nation’s undersea advantage.”
USS Iowa is part of the Block IV Virginia-class configuration, designed to deliver enhanced stealth, advanced surveillance capabilities, and specialized warfare enhancements, according to the Navy. Iowa is the sixth of 10 planned Block IV submarines.
USS Iowa is the first submarine—and the fifth U.S. Navy vessel—to bear the name of the state known as the Hawkeye State. Previous ships bearing the name include the famed battleship BB 61, which saw distinguished service during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
The submarine was christened at the GDEB shipyard in Groton on June 17, 2023, by ship sponsor Christie Vilsack, former first lady of Iowa
