U.S. Navy Launches Its Newest Attack Submarine, USS IDAHO (SSN 799)

The future USS Idaho (SSN 799), the US Navy’s newest attack submarine, was launched from General Dynamics Electric Boat’s Groton Shipyard into the Thames River on August 06, 2024.

The important milestone known as the float-off marks the shift of the submarine from construction at the shipbuilder’s facilities to its entry into the water for final outfitting, testing, and crew certification.

The Virginia Class Submarine Program Manager, Captain Mike Hollenbach, applauded the launch stating that the newly launched submarine will be a valuable asset and a reason for pride for the sailors, shipbuilders and all Americans for years to come.

Terry Stackley, the submarine sponsor, christened the USS Idaho on March 16, 2024, with water collected from several Idaho lakes for the ceremony.

The submarine’s construction began in 2017, and it will be the 26th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine delivered to the fleet.

The submarine is also the fifth U.S. Navy ship named after the state of Idaho, following the battleship BB42, commissioned in 1919.

Virginia-class submarines are well known for their advanced capabilities including enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance systems and special warfare enhancements.

These nuclear-powered submarines, designed to maintain the US Navy’s undersea dominance into the twenty-first century, are capable of carrying out various missions, such as anti-submarine warfare, information collection, and strike operations.

The modular structure, open architecture, and commercial off-the-shelf components ensure that the Virginia class remains advanced throughout its operational life, with the capacity to integrate new systems and payloads quickly.

Reference: NAVSEA