US Navy Bolsters Undersea Dominance with Delivery of USS Massachusetts, Eyes Expanded Fleet
The United States Navy significantly strengthened its undersea capabilities on November 21 with the delivery of the future USS Massachusetts (SSN-798), the 25th Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine, built by Newport News Shipbuilding. The addition of this advanced vessel signals a renewed focus on naval expansion and modernization.
Virginia-Class Submarines: A Growing Force
The future USS Massachusetts completed its testing period before being formally received in a ceremony at Newport News, Virginia. The submarine is expected to return to service next year and represents the 12th Virginia-class submarine constructed by Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII). These submarines, produced in collaboration with General Dynamics Electric Boats (GDEB) in Groton, Connecticut, are critical to maintaining American naval superiority.
“This end of the year is dynamic,” noted one industry observer, referencing increased activity in the shipbuilding sector. Multiple budget extensions have contributed to this momentum, with a particular emphasis placed on naval construction.
Block IV Advances and Future Developments
The future USS Massachusetts and the future USS Idaho (SSN-799), currently undergoing sea trials and built by GDEB, both represent the Block IV standard of the Virginia-class. Two additional Block IV submarines, the future USS Arkansas and USS Utah, are still under construction, bringing the total number of Virginia-class submarines to 28 across Blocks I through IV. These vessels measure 115 meters in length, have a 10-meter diameter, and displace 7,900 tonnes when submerged. Each submarine is manned by a crew of 134 and is equipped with 12 vertical launch cells for Tomahawk cruise missiles, alongside four 533mm torpedo tubes carrying 25 Mk48 torpedoes and additional missiles.
Looking ahead, the Navy is transitioning to the Block V Virginia-class submarines, which will be larger and more capable. The future USS Oklahoma (SSN 802) and USS Arizona (SSN 803) – laid down in August 2023 and December 2022 respectively – will be 140 meters long with a submerged displacement exceeding 10,000 tonnes. This increased size will accommodate an additional vertical launch module capable of carrying at least 40 Tomahawk missiles. Ten Block V submarines have already been ordered, with plans for future Block VI and Block VII iterations.
Expanding the Fleet: Challenges and Progress
The ultimate size of the Virginia-class fleet, potentially reaching or exceeding sixty submarines, hinges on the progress of the SSN(X) program – a next-generation class of American nuclear attack submarines slated to begin construction in the early 2030s for service in the 2040s. The Navy has faced challenges in maintaining a consistent shipbuilding pace, fielding only one submarine per year from 2023-2025. However, 2026 is projected to see the commissioning of two Virginia-class submarines, alongside two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, marking a significant improvement.
Alongside attack submarines, the Navy is also advancing its ballistic missile submarine program. The first Columbia-class nuclear ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) is currently in the assembly phase at GDEB, with its final hull section – the bow – expected to be transported to Groton. Hull sections for these submarines are jointly manufactured by HHI and GDEB, with GDEB responsible for final assembly, currently reported to be 60% complete. Commissioning is anticipated in 2028, though the program has experienced delays.
Destroyer Construction Continues
Concurrent with submarine development, the construction of destroyers remains a priority. Following the delivery of the USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. (DDG 124), built by General Dynamics’ Bath Iron Works, the future USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128), constructed by HHI, has completed sea trials. This Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is poised to join the fleet, further bolstering the Navy’s surface combat capabilities.
The year 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for naval expansion, potentially witnessing the commissioning of two Virginia-class submarines and two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, demonstrating a clear commitment to maintaining a modern and formidable naval force.
