Overview
- HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding formally transferred SSN 798 to the Navy on November 21 following initial sea trials completed in October.
- The submarine is the 25th Virginia-class built under the Newport News–General Dynamics Electric Boat teaming arrangement, the seventh Block IV, and the 12th Virginia-class delivered by NNS.
- During first trials, it executed initial submergence, high-speed maneuvers, and comprehensive checks of navigation, propulsion, combat and auxiliary systems.
- The boat proceeds to additional Navy-run tests ahead of an expected commissioning in spring 2026.
- Virginia-class design features include enhanced stealth, advanced surveillance, SOF support with a reconfigurable torpedo room and large lockout trunk, and photonics masts replacing traditional periscopes.