Northrop Grumman Submarine

Using expertise developed from building 53 attack submarines over four decades, Newport News is constructing the nation's newest attack submarines - the Virginia class, the most advanced submarine in the world. 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-feet 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 is currently building the first 10 submarines of a class expected to reach 30 ships.

Ships to be delivered by Newport News:

• Texas (SSN 775)
• North Carolina (SSN 777)
• New Mexico (SSN 779) - in the early stages of construction
• SSN 781 (Unnamed) - construction began in 2005
• SSN 783 (Unnamed) - started early material procurement in 2005

Did you know Virginia-class submarines:

• are the most advanced submarines in the world
• will maintain the nation’s undersea supremacy well into the 21^st century
• require seven years to design and five years to build
• are 377 feet long, 34 feet in diameter, and displace 7,800 tons submerged
• are capable of submerged speeds in excess of 25 knots
• have a crew complement of 100 sailors and officers
• can stay submerged for periods of up to 3 months at a time