Virginia-class submarine

File:Virginia class submarine.jpg

The class was developed under the codename Centurion, later renamed New SSN (NSSN).{{cite web|url=http://www.gdeb.com/about/history/|title=General Dynamics Electric Boat - History|website=gdeb.com|access-date=21 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019070946/http://www.gdeb.com/about/history/|archive-date=19 October 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.harpoondatabases.com/encyclopedia/Entry1383.aspx |title=SSN-774 Virginia class |access-date=23 November 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130910002816/http://www.harpoondatabases.com/encyclopedia/entry1383.aspx |archive-date=10 September 2013}} The "Centurion Study" was initiated in February 1991.{{cite web |url=https://fas.org/man//dod-101/sys/ship/docs/920721-cr.htm |title=Navy Report on New Attack Submarine (Senate - July 21, 1992) |publisher=Federation of American Scientists |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509232338/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/docs/920721-cr.htm |archive-date=9 May 2015 |url-status=live}} The Virginia-class submarine was the first US Navy warship with its development coordinated using such 3D visualization technology as CATIA, which comprises computer-aided engineering (CAE), computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and product lifecycle management (PLM). Design problems for Electric Boat—and maintenance problems for the Navy—ensued nonetheless.{{cite journal|title=RAND Corporation-Virginia Case Study |journal=Learning from Experience |pages=61–92 |date=2011|jstor=10.7249/j.ctt3fh0zm.13 |last1=Schank |first1=John F. |last2=Ip |first2=Cesse |last3=Lacroix |first3=Frank W. |last4=Murphy |first4=Robert E. |last5=Arena |first5=Mark V. |last6=Kamarck |first6=Kristy N. |last7=Lee |first7=Gordon T. |isbn=9780833058966}}{{cite web|url=http://www.submarinesuppliers.org/programs/index.php |title=Submarine Industrial Base Council |publisher=Submarinesuppliers.org |date=22 December 2008 |access-date=6 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119163338/http://www.submarinesuppliers.org/programs/index.php |archive-date=19 January 2012}}

By 2007 approximately 35 million labor hours had been spent to design the Virginia class.{{cite book |url=http://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a478587.pdf |title=Sustaining U.S. Nuclear Submarine Design Capabilities |first1=John F. |last1=Schank |first2=Mark V. |last2=Arena |first3=Paul |last3=DeLuca |first4=Jessie |last4=Riposo |first5=Kimberly |last5=Curry |first6=Todd |last6=Weeks |first7=James |last7=Chiesa |publisher=National Defense Research Institute |date=2007 |isbn=978-0-8330-4160-9 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141208221924/http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a478587.pdf |archive-date=8 December 2014 |url-status=live}} Constructing a single Virginia-class submarine has required around nine million labor hours,{{cite web|url=http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/default.aspx|title=Naval Submarine League |publisher=Navalsubleague.com| date=27 September 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625012742/http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/default.aspx |archive-date=25 June 2014}}{{cite web

|url=http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/documents/Submarine%20Road%20Show%20NSL%2017%20Aug%202011%20NSL.ppsx

|title=Submarine Road Show

|publisher=navalsubleague.com

|date=17 August 2011

|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131113065646/http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/documents/Submarine%20Road%20Show%20NSL%2017%20Aug%202011%20NSL.ppsx

|archive-date=13 November 2013

|access-date=27 April 2022}} and over 4,000 suppliers.{{cite web |last=Roberts |first=Jim |date=Winter 2011 |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_43/double_vision.html |title=Double Vision: Planning to Increase Virginia-Class Production |issue=43 |publisher=US Navy |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923060516/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_43/double_vision.html |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=dead}} Each submarine is projected to make 14–15 deployments during its 33-year service life.{{cite web |last=Butler |first=John D.|url=http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-06/sweet-smell-acquisition-success |title=The Sweet Smell of Acquisition Success |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |volume=137 |issue=6/1,300 |date=June 2011 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150718071331/http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-06/sweet-smell-acquisition-success |archive-date=18 July 2015 |url-status=live}}

The Virginia class was intended in part as a less expensive alternative to the {{sclass|Seawolf|submarine|1}} ($1.8 billion vs $2.8 billion), whose production run was canceled after just three boats had been completed. To reduce costs, the Virginia-class submarines use many "commercial off-the-shelf" (COTS) components, especially in their computers and data networks. Improvements in shipbuilding technology have trimmed production costs below the $1.8 billion projected fiscal year 2009 dollars.

In hearings before both House of Representatives and Senate committees, the Congressional Research Service (CRS) and expert witnesses testified that the annual procurement rate of only one Virginia-class boat—rising to two in 2012—would result in excessive unit production costs, yet an insufficient complement of attack submarines.{{cite web |date=27 June 2000 |title=Statement of The Honorable Duncan Hunter, Chairman, Subcommittee on Military Procurement, Submarine Force Structure and Modernization |url=https://fas.org/man/congress/2000/00-06-27hunter.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612192741/http://fas.org/man/congress/2000/00-06-27hunter.htm |archive-date=12 June 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Federation of American Scientists Military Analysis Network}} In a 10 March 2005 statement to the House Armed Services Committee, Ronald O'Rourke of the CRS testified that, assuming that the production rate remains as planned, "production economies of scale for submarines would continue to remain limited or poor."{{cite web |url=http://www.house.gov/hasc/testimony/109thcongress/Projection%20Forces/3-10-05O'RourkeCRS.pdf |title=Statement of Ronald O'Rourke Specialist in National Defense Congressional Research Service before the House Armed Services Committee Subcommittee on Projection Forces Hearing on Navy Force Architecture and Ship Construction |date=10 March 2005 |access-date=1 March 2008 |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20060604000350/http%3A//www%2Ehouse%2Egov/hasc/testimony/109thcongress/Projection%2520Forces/3%2D10%2D05O%27RourkeCRS%2Epdf |archive-date= 4 June 2006}}

In 2001, Newport News Shipbuilding and the General Dynamics Electric Boat Company built a quarter-scale version of a Virginia-class submarine dubbed Large Scale Vehicle II (LSV II) Cutthroat. The vehicle was designed as an affordable test platform for new technologies.{{cite web |url=http://auvac.org/configurations/view/197 |title=AUV System Spec Sheet Cutthroat LSV-2 configuration |publisher=Antonymous Undersea Vehicle Applications Center |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505000859/http://auvac.org/configurations/view/197 |archive-date=5 May 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/submarine_stealth.html |title=Small Subs Provide Big Payoffs for Submarine Stealth|publisher=public.navy.mil |last=Fox |first=David M. |date=Spring 2001 |volume=3 |number=3 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605233334/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/submarine_stealth.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=dead}}

The Virginia class is built through an industrial arrangement designed to maintain both GD Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding, the only two U.S. shipyards capable of building nuclear-powered submarines.{{cite web|url=https://fas.org/programs/ssp/man/uswpns/navy/submarines/ssn774_virginia.html |title=SSN-774 Virginia-class NSSN New Attack Submarine |publisher=Federation of American Scientists |date=19 January 2009 |access-date=6 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707133458/http://www.fas.org/programs/ssp/man/uswpns/navy/submarines/ssn774_virginia.html |archive-date=7 July 2011}} Under the present arrangement, the Newport News facility builds the stern, habitability, machinery spaces, torpedo room, sail, and bow, while Electric Boat builds the engine room and control room. The facilities alternate work on the reactor plant as well as the final assembly, test, outfit, and delivery.

O'Rourke wrote in 2004 that, "Compared to a one-yard strategy, approaches involving two yards may be more expensive but offer potential offsetting benefits."{{cite report |last=O'Rourke |first=Ronald |title=Navy Virginia (SSN-774) Class Attack Submarine Procurement: Background and Issues for Congress |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32418.pdf |date=26 March 2015 |publisher=Congressional Research Service |page=6 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150628192435/http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32418.pdf |archive-date=28 June 2015 |url-status=live}} Among the claims of "offsetting benefits" that O'Rourke attributes to supporters of a two-facility construction arrangement is that it "would permit the United States to continue building submarines at one yard even if the other yard is rendered incapable of building submarines permanently or for a sustained period of time by a catastrophic event of some kind", including an enemy attack.

To get the submarine's price down to $2 billion per submarine in FY-05 dollars, the Navy instituted a cost-reduction program to shave off approximately $400 million of each submarine's price tag. The project was dubbed "2 for 4 in 12", referring to the Navy's desire to buy two boats for $4 billion in FY-12. Under pressure from Congress, the Navy opted to start buying two boats per year in FY-11, meaning that officials would not be able to get the $2 billion price tag before the service started buying two submarines per year. However, program manager Dave Johnson said at a conference on 19 March 2008 that the program was only $30 million away from achieving the $2 billion price goal, and would reach that target on schedule.{{cite web|url=http://insidedefense.com/secure/defense_docnum.asp?f=defense_2002.ask&docnum=NAVY-21-12-4|title=Cost reduction|access-date=25 March 2008}}{{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}

The Virginia-class Program Office received the David Packard Excellence in Acquisition Award in 1996, 1998, and 2008 "for excelling in four specific award criteria: reducing life-cycle costs; making the acquisition system more efficient, responsive, and timely; integrating defense with the commercial base and practices; and promoting continuous improvement of the acquisition process."{{cite press release |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=40781 |title=Navy's Virginia Class Program Recognized for Acquisition Excellence |location=Washington, DC |publisher=Team Submarines Public Affairs |date=8 November 2008 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605232956/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=40781 |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=dead}}

In December 2008, the Navy signed a $14 billion contract with General Dynamics and Northrop Grumman to supply eight submarines. The contract required the delivery of one submarine in each of fiscal 2009 and 2010, and two submarines on each of fiscal 2011, 2012, and 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2008/12/22/business/business-us-navy-submarines.html|title=General Dynamics And Northrop Awarded Submarine Deal|work=The New York Times|date=22 December 2008}}{{dead link|date=September 2010}} This contract was designed to bring the Navy's Virginia-class fleet to 18 submarines. In December 2010, the United States Congress passed a defense authorization bill that expanded production to two subs per year.{{cite news |last=McDermott |first=Jennifer |date=23 December 2010 |title=House, Senate ok defense bill for 2011; sub plan stays on track |work=The Day |location=New London, Connecticut |url=http://www.theday.com/article/20101223/NWS09/312239514/-1/nws |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923090031/http://www.theday.com/article/20101223/NWS09/312239514/-1/nws |archive-date=23 September 2015}} Two submarine-per-year production resumed on 2 September 2011 with commencement of {{USS|Washington|SSN-787|3}} construction.{{cite press release |url=http://www.navsea.navy.mil/Newswire2011/08SEP11-01.aspx |location=Washington, DC |publisher=NAVSEA – Naval Sea Systems Command |title=Construction Begins on SSN 787; Navy Transitions to Building Two Virginia Class Submarines Per Year |date=8 September 2011 |access-date=11 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402175120/http://www.navsea.navy.mil/Newswire2011/08SEP11-01.aspx |archive-date=2 April 2012}}

On 21 June 2008, the Navy christened {{USS|New Hampshire|SSN-778|6}}, the first Block II submarine. This boat was delivered eight months ahead of schedule and $54 million under budget. Block II boats are built in four sections, compared to the ten sections of the Block I boats. This enables a cost saving of about $300 million per boat, reducing the overall cost to $2 billion per boat and the construction of two new boats per year. Beginning in 2010, new submarines of this class were to have included a software system that can monitor and reduce their electromagnetic signatures when needed.{{cite web |first=John |last=Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/ssn-774-spiral-1.htm |title=SSN-774 Virginia-class NSSN New Attack Submarine |website=Global Security |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605021257/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/ssn-774-spiral-1.htm |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=live}}

The first full-duration six-month deployment was successfully carried out from 15 October 2009 to 13 April 2010.{{cite web|last=Communication |first=Mass |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/csg2/Pages/VARFD.aspx |title=VARFD.aspx |publisher=Public.navy.mil |access-date=26 July 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222101140/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/csg2/Pages/VARFD.aspx |archive-date=22 February 2014}} Authorization of full-rate production and the declaration of full operational capability was achieved five months later.{{cite press release |author= |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=55866 |title=Virginia Class Program Reaches Major Milestone |publisher=United States Navy |location=Washington, DC |date=10 October 2010 |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222101140/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=55866 |archive-date=22 February 2014 |url-status=dead}} In September 2010, it was found that urethane tiles, applied to the hull to damp internal sound and absorb rather than reflect sonar pulses, were falling off while the subs were at sea.{{cite web |first=Craig |last=Hooper |url=http://nextnavy.com/virginia-class-when-does-hull-coating-separation-endanger-the-boat/ |title=Virginia Class: When does hull coating separation endanger the boat? |website=Next Navy |date=6 September 2010 |access-date=30 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120705034205/http://nextnavy.com/virginia-class-when-does-hull-coating-separation-endanger-the-boat/ |archive-date=5 July 2012 |url-status=live}} Admiral Kevin McCoy announced that the problems with the Mold-in-Place Special Hull Treatment for the early subs had been fixed in 2011, then Minnesota was built and found to have the same problem.{{cite web |url=http://nextnavy.com/the-virginia-peel-why-are-2-billion-dollar-subs-losing-their-skin/ |title=The Virginia Peel: Why are $2 Billion Dollar Subs Losing Their Skin? |last1=Hooper |first1=Craig |date=7 November 2013 |website=Next Navy |access-date=7 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131112025500/http://nextnavy.com/the-virginia-peel-why-are-2-billion-dollar-subs-losing-their-skin/ |archive-date=12 November 2013 |url-status=live}}

In 2013, just as two-per-year sub construction was supposed to commence, Congress failed to resolve the United States fiscal cliff, forcing the Navy to attempt to "de-obligate" construction funds.{{cite web |author=Christopher Cavas |url=http://archive.defensenews.com/article/20130303/DEFREG02/303030004/U-S-Navy-Sets-Budget-Cutting-Plans-Motion |title=U.S. Navy Sets Budget-cutting Plans in Motion |publisher=Blogs.defensenews.com |date=2 March 2013 |access-date=22 July 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}

In April 2019, the CRS reported that the Navy estimated the cost of a boat was $2.8 billion. In July 2023, the CRS reported that the Navy estimates at the present production rate of two boats per year that the cost per boat when equipped with the additional Virginia Payload Module (VPM) mid-body section was $4.3 billion.

On 14 September 2023, at a Senate confirmation hearing, Admiral Lisa Franchetti said that the US Navy would have to work with builders to raise the rate of production from 1.2/year to 2.2/year to meet the AUKUS target.[https://www.defensenews.com/congress/2023/09/14/aukus-agreement-requires-submarine-production-boost-franchetti-says/ AUKUS agreement requires submarine production boost, Franchetti says], Bryant Harris, Defense News, 2023-09-15

File:USS North Carolina (SSN-777) commissioning 2.jpg

The Virginia class incorporates several innovations not found in previous US submarine classes.{{cite book |title=Combat Fleets of the World, 1998–1999 |last= Baker|first=A. D. III|publisher=Naval Institute Press |year=1998 |location=USA|isbn= 978-1-55750-111-0|page=1005}}

Because of the low rate of Virginia production, the Navy entered into a program with DARPA to overcome technology barriers to lower the cost of attack submarines so that more could be built, to maintain the size of the fleet.{{cite report|last= O'Rourke |first= Ronald|url= https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32914.pdf|title=Navy Ship Acquisition: Options for Lower-Cost Ship Designs — Issues for Congress |series=RL32914|publisher=Congressional Research Service|date=23 June 2005|access-date=23 November 2012|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121025051947/http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32914.pdf|archive-date=25 October 2012|url-status= live}}

These include:{{cite web|url= http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/STO/Programs/Tango_Bravo.aspx|title=Tango Bravo|work=Strategic Technology Office|publisher=DARPA|access-date=17 October 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121014043812/http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/STO/Programs/Tango_Bravo.aspx|archive-date=14 October 2012}}

• Propulsion concepts not constrained by a centerline shaft.
• Externally stowed and launched weapons (especially torpedoes).
• Conformal alternatives to the existing spherical sonar array.
• Technologies that eliminate or substantially simplify existing submarine hull, mechanical, and electrical systems.
• Automation to reduce crew workload for standard tasks

Virginia-class subs are the first class where all masts share common design – the Universal Modular Mast (UMM) – designed by L3 KEO{{cite web |url= http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/products/submarine.htm#o |title=Submarine Imaging |publisher= L-3com |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150420040436/http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/products/submarine.htm#o |archive-date=20 April 2015 |url-status= dead}} (previously Kollmorgen).{{cite press release |url= http://www.l-3com.com/media-center/press-releases.html?pr_id=1658097 |title=L-3 Completes Acquisition of Kollmorgen Electro-Optical |number= 212–697–1111 |publisher=L-3com |date=7 February 2012 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402111442/http://www.l-3com.com/media-center/press-releases.html?pr_id=1658097 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |publisher=SPIE Europe |url=http://optics.org/news/3/2/7 |title=L-3 completes $210M Kollmorgen acquisition |work=Optics.org |date=8 February 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150904031441/http://optics.org/news/3/2/7 |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=live}} Shared components have been maximized and some design choices are also shared between different masts. The first UMM was installed on {{USS |Memphis|SSN-691|6}}, a Los Angeles-class submarine.{{cite web |url= http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/pdfs/AD-16%20PMP%20datasht.pdf |title= Photonics Mast Program |publisher=L-3 KEO |date=20 March 2008 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121223014422/http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/pdfs/AD-16%20PMP%20datasht.pdf |archive-date=23 December 2012 |url-status=dead}} The UMM is an integrated system for housing, erecting, and supporting submarine mast-mounted antennas and sensors.{{cite web |date=30 July 1998 |title=U.S. Navy: Vision… Presence… Power |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/vision/vis98/vis-p10.html |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150420230121/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/vision/vis98/vis-p10.html |archive-date=20 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy}} The UMMs are the following:

• Snorkel mast{{Cite web |title=Virginia class Attack Submarine – SSN |url= https://www.seaforces.org/usnships/ssn/Virginia-class.htm |access-date=9 November 2011 |website= Sea forces}}
• Two photonic masts
• Two communication masts
• One or two high-data-rate satellite communication (SATCOM) masts,{{cite speech |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/congress/fages062000.html |title=RADM Fages' 2000 Testimony |publisher=Chief of Naval Operations, Submarine Warfare Division |date=27 June 2000 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091222091814/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/congress/fages062000.html |archive-date=22 December 2009 |url-status=dead}} built by Raytheon,{{cite press release |url= http://investor.raytheon.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=84193&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=597551 |title=Raytheon to Produce SATCOM System for New Virginia Class Submarine; Contract Valued at $29.4 Million |publisher=Raytheon |date=28 July 2000 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016051956/http://investor.raytheon.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=84193&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=597551 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |url-status=live}} enabling communication at super high frequency (for downlink) and extremely high frequency (for uplink) range{{cite web |url = http://www.afspc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7758 |title=Factsheets : Advanced Extremely High Frequency System |publisher=Air Force Space Command |date=25 March 2015 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150919125701/http://www.afspc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7758 |archive-date=19 September 2015}}
• Radar mast (carrying AN/BPS-16 surface search and navigation radar){{cite web |date=6 December 2013 |title = AN/BPS-15/16 Radar |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=2100&tid=309&ct=2 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150327044420/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=2100&tid=309&ct=2 |archive-date=27 March 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |website=Fact File |publisher=US Navy}}
• Electronic warfare mast (AN/BLQ-10 Electronic Support Measures) used to detect, analyze, and identify both radar and communication signals from ships, aircraft, submarines, and land-based transmitters{{cite web |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/ship_sensors_weapons.html |title=Ships, Sensors, and Weapons |publisher=US Navy |date=Spring 2001 |volume=3 |issue=3 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150605233336/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/ship_sensors_weapons.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite conference |url = https://www.myaoc.org/eweb/images/aoc_library/Events/2002/102802_CONV/02CONV_Proceedings/Day3/Track4/Phelps.pdf |title=AN/BLQ-10(V): Submarine Electronic Warfare Support for the 21st Century |last = Phelps |first=William |conference=39th Annual AOC International Symposium and Convention |location=Nashville, TN |publisher= Association of Old Crows |date=29 October 2002 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402181142/https://www.myaoc.org/eweb/images/aoc_library/Events/2002/102802_CONV/02CONV_Proceedings/Day3/Track4/Phelps.pdf |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status= dead}}{{cite web |url= http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013anblq10.pdf |title=AN/BLQ-10 Submarine Electronic Warfare Support System |publisher= OSD |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402115407/http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013anblq10.pdf |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}

File:Manette de Xbox360, USS Colorado.jpg to control the photonic masts of USS Colorado in 2018. It is the first submarine to use this Xbox controller.]]

The Virginia class is the first to utilize photonic sensors instead of a traditional periscope. The class is equipped with high-resolution cameras, along with light-intensification and infrared sensors, an infrared laser rangefinder, and an integrated Electronic Support Measures (ESM) array. Two redundant sets of these sensors are mounted on two AN/BVS-1 photonics masts located outside the pressure hull. Signals from the masts' sensors are transmitted through optical fiber data lines through signal processors to the control center.{{cite web |first=Claudio |last=Paschoa |url = http://www.marinetechnologynews.com/blogs/umm-photonics-mast-for-virginia-class-attack-submarines-700510 |title=UMM Photonics Mast for Virginia-class Attack | work =Marine technology news |date= 11 September 2014 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402162107/http://www.marinetechnologynews.com/blogs/umm-photonics-mast-for-virginia-class-attack-submarines-700510 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=live}} Visual feeds from the masts are displayed on liquid-crystal display interfaces in the command center.{{cite web |last1=Graves |first1=Barbara |last2= Whitman |first2=Edward |date=Winter 1999 |title=Virginia-class: America's Next Submarine |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_02/virginia_class.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150831001014/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_02/virginia_class.htm |archive-date=31 August 2015 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy |volume=1 |number=2}}

The design of earlier optical periscopes required them to penetrate the pressure hull, reducing the structural integrity of the pressure hull as well as increasing the risk of flooding, and also required the submarine's control room to be located directly below the sail/fin.{{cite web |last=Holian |first=Thomas |date=Fall 2004 |title=Eyes from the Deep: A History of U.S. Navy Submarine Periscopes |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_24/eyes.htm |publisher=US Navy |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150904031441/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_24/eyes.htm |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=dead}} Implementation of photonics masts (which do not penetrate the pressure hull) enabled the submarine control room to be relocated to a position inside the pressure hull which is not necessarily directly below the sail.

The current photonics masts have a visual appearance so different from ordinary periscopes that when the submarine is detected, it can be distinctly identified as a Virginia-class vessel. As a result, current photonic masts will be replaced with Low-Profile Photonics Masts (LPPM) which resemble traditional submarine periscopes more closely.

In the future, a non-rotational Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics Mast may be fitted, enabling the submarine to obtain a simultaneous 360° view of the sea surface.{{cite web |date= October 2012 |title=Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics Mast |url= http://www.onr.navy.mil/~/media/Files/Fact-Sheets/31/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics.ashx |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402125034/http://www.onr.navy.mil/~/media/Files/Fact-Sheets/31/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics.ashx |archive-date=2 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Office of Naval Research}}{{cite web |title= Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics |url= http://www.onr.navy.mil/en/Media-Center/Fact-Sheets/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics-Mast.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402144708/http://www.onr.navy.mil/en/Media-Center/Fact-Sheets/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics-Mast.aspx |archive-date=2 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Office of Naval Research}}

In contrast to a traditional bladed propeller, the Virginia class uses pump-jet propulsors by BAE Systems,{{cite press release |url= http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_049643/bae-systems-delivers-first-us-navy-submarine-propulsor-from-louisville-facility-receives-additional-243-million-contract |title=BAE Systems Delivers First U.S. Navy Submarine Propulsor from Louisville Facility, Receives Additional $24.3 Million Contract |publisher=BAE Systems |date=1 June 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150605233253/http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_049643/bae-systems-delivers-first-us-navy-submarine-propulsor-from-louisville-facility-receives-additional-243-million-contract |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=live}} originally developed for the Royal Navy's {{sclass|Swiftsure|submarine|1}}s.{{cite book |last1= Hool |first1=Jack |last2= Nutter |first2=Keith |title=Damned Un-English Machines, a history of Barrow-built submarines |publisher=Tempus |year=2003 |isbn= 978-0-7524-2781-2 |page=180}} The propulsor significantly reduces the risks of cavitation, and allows quieter operation.

Sonar arrays aboard Virginia-class submarines have an "Open System Architecture" (OSA) which enables rapid insertion of new hardware and software as they become available. Hardware upgrades (dubbed Technology Insertions) are usually carried out every four years, while software updates (dubbed Advanced Processor Builds) are carried out every two years. Virginia-class submarines feature several types of sonar arrays.{{cite web |date=2013 |title=US Navy Program Guide 2013 |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/seapower/npg13/top-npg13.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160821160828/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/seapower/npg13/top-npg13.pdf |archive-date=21 August 2016 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy}}

• BQQ-10 bow-mounted spherical active/passive sonar array{{cite web |url= http://www.soltron.co.kr/data/file/tech1_13/990609174_a5GOlHdf_Sonar_Type_Descriptions.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160629031446/http://www.soltron.co.kr/data/file/tech1_13/990609174_a5GOlHdf_Sonar_Type_Descriptions.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 June 2016 |title=APPENDIX C Exercise and Sonar Type Descriptions |date=December 2008 |access-date= 26 April 2015}} (Large Aperture Bow (LAB) sonar array from SSN-784 onward)
• A wide aperture lightweight fiber optic sonar array, consisting of three flat panels mounted low along either side of the hull{{cite web |url= http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/SubmarineHullArrays/Pages/ |title=Submarine Hull Arrays |publisher= Northrop Grumman |access-date=26 April 2015 }}{{dead link|date=August 2023|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}
• Two high frequency active sonars mounted in the sail and bow. The chin-mounted (below the bow) and sail-mounted high frequency sonars supplement the (spherical/LAB) main sonar array, enabling safer operations in coastal waters, enhancing under-ice navigation, and improving anti-submarine warfare performance.{{cite web

|url= http://www.ultra-os.com/special.php |title=Special Purpose Sonar |publisher= Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems |access-date= 26 April 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150314050256/http://www.ultra-os.com/special.php |archive-date=14 March 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url = http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/issue_3/uss_asheville.htm |title = USS Asheville Leads the Way in High Frequency Sonar

|publisher = Navy|volume = 1 |issue = 3|year = 1999|first1 = Leonard|last1 = Moreavek |first2 = T.J|last2 = Brudner

|access-date = 26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121002042424/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/issue_3/uss_asheville.htm |archive-date = 2 October 2012|url-status = dead}}

• Low-Cost Conformal Array (LCCA) high frequency sonar, mounted on both sides of the submarine's sail. Provides coverage above and behind the submarine.{{cite web |last=Keller |first=John |url= http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2012/03/lockheed-martin-to-provide-navy-submarines-with-360-degree-situational-awareness-sail-mounted-sonar.html |title=Lockheed Martin to provide Navy submarines with 360-degree situational-awareness sail-mounted sonar |publisher=Military & Aerospace Electronics |date=25 March 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150215230732/http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2012/03/lockheed-martin-to-provide-navy-submarines-with-360-degree-situational-awareness-sail-mounted-sonar.html |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}

Virginia-class submarines are also equipped with a low frequency towed sonar array and a high frequency towed sonar array.{{cite web |url= http://www.military.com/equipment/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn |title=Virginia Class Attack Submarine - SSN | work =Military |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150507084934/http://www.military.com/equipment/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn |archive-date=7 May 2015 |url-status=live}}

• TB-16 or TB-34 fat line tactical towed sonar array{{cite web |url= http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013arci.pdf |title=Acoustic Rapid Commercial Off‑the‑Shelf (COTS) Insertion (A-RCI) and AN/BYG‑1 Combat Control System |publisher= OSD |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150923220213/http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013arci.pdf |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2009/dot-e/navy/2009arci.pdf |title=Acoustic Rapid Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Insertion for Sonar AN/BQQ-10 (V) (A-RCI) |publisher=Global Security |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150924065357/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2009/dot-e/navy/2009arci.pdf |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}}
• TB-29 or TB-33 thin line long-range search towed sonar array

• Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment MK11 suit(s) that enable ascent from a sunken submarine (maximum ascent depth {{convert|600|ft|m}}){{cite web |author=Crafty Devil |url= http://www.survitecgroup.com/products/seie-mk11 |title=Products » RFD Beaufort – SEIE MK11 |publisher=Survitec Group |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150427111710/http://survitecgroup.com/products/seie-mk11 |archive-date=27 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}
• Lithium hydroxide canisters that remove carbon dioxide from the submarine's atmosphere
• Submarine Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (SEPIRB){{cite web |url= http://www.ultra-os.com/underwater.php |title=Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems - Underwater Communications |publisher=Ultra Electronics |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150506081603/http://www.ultra-os.com/underwater.php |archive-date=6 May 2015 |url-status=dead}}{{cite book |title=SSN 774 Class Guard Book – Disabled Submarine Survival Guide – Aft Escape Trunk (Logistics Escape Truck) |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/fltfor/insurv3/Getting_Inspected/Documents/Submarine/References/Survivability%20and%20Escape/774_Guard_Book/774CL%20Aft%20Guard%20Book%20S9594-AP-SAR-H10%20Rev00%20with%20ACN%201-1%20ACN%201-2%20ACN%201-3.pdf |at=Card 6I |publisher=US Navy |date=29 March 2012 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140602213254/http://www.public.navy.mil/fltfor/insurv3/Getting_Inspected/Documents/Submarine/References/Survivability%20and%20Escape/774_Guard_Book/774CL%20Aft%20Guard%20Book%20S9594-AP-SAR-H10%20Rev00%20with%20ACN%201-1%20ACN%201-2%20ACN%201-3.pdf |archive-date=2 June 2014 |url-status=dead}}

File:150801-N-EO381-162.JPG

The Block III submarines have two multipurpose Virginia Payload Tubes (VPT) replacing the dozen single purpose cruise missile launch tubes.{{cite news |url= http://breakingdefense.com/2014/04/navy-sub-program-stumbles-ssn-north-dakota-delayed-by-launch-tube-troubles/ |title=Navy Sub Program Stumbles: SSN North Dakota Delayed By Launch Tube Troubles |last1=Freedberg Jr. |first1=Sydney J. |date=16 April 2014 |work = Breaking Defense |publisher=Breaking Media |access-date=16 April 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140417083219/http://breakingdefense.com/2014/04/navy-sub-program-stumbles-ssn-north-dakota-delayed-by-launch-tube-troubles/ |archive-date=17 April 2014 |url-status= live}}

The Block V submarines built from 2019 onward will have an additional Virginia Payload Module (VPM) mid-body section, increasing their overall length. The VPM will add four more VPTs of the same diameter and greater height, located on the centerline, carrying up to seven Tomahawk missiles apiece, that would replace some of the capabilities lost when the SSGN conversion {{sclass|Ohio|submarine|1}}s are retired from the fleet.{{cite web |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/issues/archives/issue_47/virginia.html |title=The Virginia Payload Module: A Revolutionary Concept for Attack Submarines |last1=Hasslinger |first1=Karl |last2=Pavlos |first2=John |date=Winter 2012 |issue=47 |publisher=US Navy |access-date=16 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903104754/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/issues/archives/issue_47/virginia.html |archive-date=3 September 2014 |url-status= dead}} Initially eight payload tubes/silos were planned but this was later rejected in favor of four tubes installed in a {{convert|70|ft|adj=on}} long module between the operations compartment and the propulsion spaces.{{cite news |url= http://news.usni.org/2013/11/04/navy-selects-virginia-payload-module-design-concept |title=Navy Selects Virginia Payload Module Design Concept |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=4 November 2013 |access-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131111113057/http://news.usni.org/2013/11/04/navy-selects-virginia-payload-module-design-concept |archive-date=11 November 2013 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url= http://news.usni.org/2013/10/24/document-peo-subs-overview-u-s-navy-undersea-programs#more-5177 |title=Document: PEO Subs Overview of U.S. Navy Undersea Programs |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=24 October 2013 |access-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111113609/http://news.usni.org/2013/10/24/document-peo-subs-overview-u-s-navy-undersea-programs#more-5177 |archive-date=11 November 2013 |url-status= live}}

The VPM could potentially carry (non-nuclear) medium-range ballistic missiles. Adding the VPM would increase the cost of each submarine by $500 million (2012 prices).{{cite news |last=Grossman |first=Elaine M. |url=http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/us-senate-panel-limits-navy-effort-add-missiles-attack-submarines/ |title=U.S. Senate Panel Curbs Navy Effort to Add Missiles to Attack Submarines |agency=Global Security Newswire |publisher=Nuclear Threat Initiative |date=1 August 2012 |access-date=6 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130203025801/http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/us-senate-panel-limits-navy-effort-add-missiles-attack-submarines/ |archive-date=3 February 2013 |url-status=live}} This additional cost would be offset by reducing the total submarine force by four boats.{{cite news |last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |url=http://archive.navytimes.com/article/20130204/NEWS/302040306/Navy-cuts-fleet-goal-to-306-ships |title=Navy cuts fleet goal to 306 ships |work=Navy Times |date=4 February 2013 |access-date=6 February 2013}}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} More recent reports state that as a cost reduction measure the VPM would carry only Tomahawk SLCM and possibly unmanned undersea vehicles (UUV) with the new price tag now estimated at $360–380 million per boat (in 2010 prices). The VPM launch tubes/silos will reportedly be similar in design to the ones planned for the Ohio class replacement.{{cite web |last=Ross |first=Robert T. |url=http://www.ct.gov/oma/cwp/view.asp?a=3422&q=525006 |title=Lower Ohio-Class Replacement Cost Tied To VA-Class Multiyear Deal: Could Achieve 8 To 15 Percent Savings |website=State of Connecticut, Office of Military Affairs |date=17 May 2013 |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130925093729/http://www.ct.gov/oma/cwp/view.asp?a=3422&q=525006 |archive-date=25 September 2013 |url-status= live}}{{cite news |first=Kris |last= Osborn |url= http://defensetech.org/2014/01/28/navy-electric-boat-test-tube-launched-underwater-vehicle/ |title=Navy, Electric Boat Test Tube-Launched Underwater Vehicle |publisher=Defense Tech |location= Groton, CT |date=28 January 2014 |access-date=9 February 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140204222103/http://defensetech.org/2014/01/28/navy-electric-boat-test-tube-launched-underwater-vehicle/ |archive-date=4 February 2014 |url-status=dead}} In July 2016 General Dynamics was awarded $19 million for VPM development.{{cite web |date=19 July 2016 |title=General Dynamics Awarded $19 Million by U.S. Navy for Virginia Payload Module Development |url= http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2016/07/general-dynamics-awarded-19-million-us-navy-virginia-payload-module |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302114956/http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2016/07/general-dynamics-awarded-19-million-us-navy-virginia-payload-module |archive-date=2 March 2017 |access-date=1 March 2017}} In February 2017 General Dynamics was awarded $126 million for long lead time construction of Block V submarines equipped with VPM.{{cite web |date=16 February 2017 |title=General Dynamics Awarded $126 Million by U.S. Navy for Virginia-Class Block V Long Lead Time Material |url= http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302114946/http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long |archive-date=2 March 2017 |access-date=1 March 2017}}

The VPM was designed by General Dynamics Electric Boat;{{cite web |title=BWX Technologies to Develop Payload Tubes for Virginia-class Submarines |url= http://www.defenseworld.net/news/18058/BWX_Technologies_To_Develop_Payload_Tubes_For_Virginia_class_Submarines |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161702/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/18058/BWX_Technologies_To_Develop_Payload_Tubes_For_Virginia_class_Submarines |archive-date=30 June 2018 |access-date= 30 June 2018}} however, manufacturing is undertaken by BWX Technologies and BAE Systems.{{cite web |url= https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-ramps-up-for-virginia-class-payload-module-launch-tube-production |title=BAE Systems ramps up for Virginia-class submarine payload module launch tube production |access-date=30 June 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161908/https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-ramps-up-for-virginia-class-payload-module-launch-tube-production |archive-date=30 June 2018 |url-status=live}}

According to open-source budget documents, Virginia-class submarines are planned to be equipped with a high-energy laser weapon likely to be incorporated into the photonics mast and have a power output of 300–500 kilowatts, based on the submarine's 30 megawatts reactor capacity.{{cite magazine |url= https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a30647372/laser-nuclear-subs/ |title=The Navy Is Arming Nuclear Subs With Lasers. No One Knows Why |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=4 February 2020 |access-date=9 February 2020}}{{cite magazine |url= https://www.forbes.com/sites/hisutton/2020/02/09/the-navy-will-arm-attack-submarines-with-high-energy-lasers/ |title=The Navy Is Arming Attack Submarines With High Energy Lasers |magazine= Forbes |date=9 February 2020 |access-date=9 February 2020}}

File:US Navy 040822-N-2653P-344 One of PCU Virginia's (SSN 774) new components is it's diesel generator, a Caterpillar 3512B V-12 Twin-turbo charged engine.jpg

• Optical fiber fly-by-wire Ship Control System replaces electro-hydraulic systems for control surface actuation.
• Command and control system module (CCSM) built by Lockheed Martin.{{cite web |url= http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/nssn/ |title=NSSN Virginia Class Attack Submarine |publisher=naval-technology |date=15 June 2011 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150420153602/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/nssn/ |archive-date=20 April 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Kearney |first=Tom|url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/pcu_virginia.html |title=Status Report: PCU Virginia (SSN-774) |publisher=US Navy |date=Spring 2001 |volume=3 |number=3 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150606034138/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/pcu_virginia.html |archive-date=6 June 2015 |url-status =dead}}
• The auxiliary generator is powered by a Caterpillar model 3512B V-12 marine diesel engine. This replaced the Fairbanks-Morse diesel engine, which would not fit in Virginia{{'}}s auxiliary machinery room.
• Modernized version of the AN/BSY-1 integrated combat system designated AN/BYG-1 (previously designated CCS Mk2) and built by General Dynamics AIS (previously Raytheon).{{cite web |url= http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=360 |title= Raytheon Delivers Submarine Combat System to Royal Australian Navy |publisher=Raytheon |date=30 January 2006 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150215231030/http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=360 |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url= http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/General-Dynamics-To-Upgrade-Submarine-Weapons-Control-Systems-05631/ |title=General Dynamics To Upgrade Submarine Weapons Control Systems |date=21 July 2009 |work = Defense Industry Daily |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150511021719/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/General-Dynamics-To-Upgrade-Submarine-Weapons-Control-Systems-05631/ |archive-date=11 May 2015 |url-status= live}} AN/BYG-1 integrates the submarine Tactical Control System (TCS), Payload Control System (PCS) (formerly Weapon Control System (WCS)), and Information Assurance (IA).{{cite web |title=AN/BYG-1 Submarine Tactical Control System (TCS) |url= http://www.gd-ais.com/Domains/ANBYG-1-Submarine-Tactical-Control-System-(TCS) |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160304192350/http://www.gd-ais.com/Domains/ANBYG-1-Submarine-Tactical-Control-System-(TCS) |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher = General Dynamics}}{{cite web |url= http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2013/06/gd-cots-submarine.html |title=General Dynamics continues project to upgrade submarine electronics with COTS computers |publisher=Military & Aerospace Electronics |date=27 June 2013 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150215220456/http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2013/06/gd-cots-submarine.html |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Progeny Systems to build and upgrade submarine combat system to control weapons on Navy fast-attack boats |url=https://www.militaryaerospace.com/computers/article/14201664/submarine-weapons-combat-system |website=Military+Aerospace Electronics |date=20 April 2021 |access-date=25 February 2024}}
• USS California was the first Virginia-class submarine with the advanced electromagnetic signature reduction system built into it, but this system is being retrofitted into the other submarines of the class.{{cite web |url= http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09326sp.pdf |title= GAO-09-326SP

|publisher=Government Accounting Office |date=March 2009 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141206115911/http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09326sp.pdf |archive-date=6 December 2014 |url-status=dead}}

• Integral 9-man lock-out diving chamber.{{cite web |title=USS Virginia SSN-774-A New Steel Shark at Sea |url = http://www.aticourses.com/blog/index.php/2011/07/19/uss-virginia-ssn-774a-new-steel-shark-at-sea/ |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150509163728/http://www.aticourses.com/blog/index.php/2011/07/19/uss-virginia-ssn-774a-new-steel-shark-at-sea |archive-date=9 May 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Applied Technology Institute}}

File:774 Virginia construction.jpg

• Builders: General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding
• Length: {{convert|377|ft|m|2|abbr=on}} [Block V: 460 ft (140.2 m)]
• Beam: {{convert|34|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}
• Displacement: {{convert|7800|LT|t|sp=us}} [Block V: {{convert|10200|LT|t|sp=us}}
• Payload: 40 weapons, special operations forces, unmanned undersea vehicles, Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS) [Block V: 40 Tomahawk cruise missiles]
• Propulsion: S9G nuclear reactor delivering {{convert|40,000|shp|MW}}.{{cite thesis |last=Ragheb |first=M. |title=Nuclear Marine Propulsion |url=http://www.ewp.rpi.edu/hartford/~ernesto/F2010/EP2/Materials4Students/Misiaszek/NuclearMarinePropulsion.pdf |publisher=Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute |date=11 November 2010 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226055625/http://www.ewp.rpi.edu/hartford/~ernesto/F2010/EP2/Materials4Students/Misiaszek/NuclearMarinePropulsion.pdf |archive-date=26 February 2015 |url-status=dead}} Nuclear core life estimated at 33 years.{{cite web|url=http://www.alternatewars.com/BBOW/Nuclear/US_Naval_Reactors.htm|title=U.S. Naval Reactors|access-date=4 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231134230/http://www.alternatewars.com/BBOW/Nuclear/US_Naval_Reactors.htm|archive-date=31 December 2012|url-status=live}} Nuclear fuel manufactured by BWX Technologies.{{cite press release |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180226005115/en/BWXT-Announces-492-Million-Naval-Nuclear-Reactor |title=BWXT Announces $492 Million in Naval Nuclear Reactor Contract Option Awards |date=26 February 2018 |access-date=30 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161657/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180226005115/en/BWXT-Announces-492-Million-Naval-Nuclear-Reactor |archive-date=30 June 2018 |url-status=live}}{{cite web

|url=http://www.nuclearfuelservices.com/

|title=Protecting the Future of Freedom across the globe

|publisher=nuclearfuelservices.com

|date=11 May 2018

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161721/http://www.nuclearfuelservices.com/ |archive-date=30 June 2018

|access-date=27 April 2022}}

• Test depth: greater than {{convert|800|ft|m|abbr=on}}, allegedly around {{convert|1600|ft}}.
• Speed: Greater than {{convert|25|kn}},{{Cite web |title=Attack Submarines - SSN |url=https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/article/2169558/attack-submarines-ssn/ |access-date=2023-03-12 |website=www.navy.mil |language=en-US}} allegedly up to {{convert|35|kn}}{{cite web|url=https://zbigniewmazurak.wordpress.com/2015/02/17/how-american-russian-and-chinese-nuclear-powered-submarines-compare|title=How American, Russian, and Chinese Nuclear-POwered Submarines Compare|year=2015|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160824153417/https://zbigniewmazurak.wordpress.com/2015/02/17/how-american-russian-and-chinese-nuclear-powered-submarines-compare/|archive-date=24 August 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.scout.com/military/warrior/story/1713246-virginia-class-vs-russian-yasen-class-sub-war|title= US Virginia Class vs Russian Yasen Class Submarine Warfare - Who Wins?|year= 2017|access-date = 17 June 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170623043613/http://www.scout.com/military/warrior/story/1713246-virginia-class-vs-russian-yasen-class-sub-war|archive-date = 23 June 2017|url-status = dead}}{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RESP9IOmczoC&q=virginia+class+35+knots&pg=PA160|title=Modern Warships|year=2007|isbn=9781616732608|last1=Kit Bonner|first1=Carolyn Bonner|publisher=Zenith Imprint }}
• Planned cost: about US$1.65 billion each (based on FY95 dollars, 30-boat class and two boat/year build-rate)
• Actual cost: US$1.5 billion (in 1994 prices), US$2.6 billion (in 2012 prices){{cite news|url=http://www.gao.gov/assets/230/220367.pdf|title=Lessons of Prior Programs May Reduce New Attack Submarine Cost Increases and Delays|author1=Ted Kennedy|author2-link=John Conyers|author2=John Conyers|date=20 October 1994|work=Government Accountability Office|access-date=12 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113071414/http://www.gao.gov/assets/230/220367.pdf|archive-date=13 November 2013|url-status=dead|author1-link=Ted Kennedy}}{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/Virginia-Class-Sub-Program-Wins-Acquisition-Award-05167/ |title=Virginia Class Sub Program Wins Acquisition Award |publisher=Defenseindustrydaily.com |date=20 November 2008 |access-date=23 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501104350/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/Virginia-Class-Sub-Program-Wins-Acquisition-Award-05167/ |archive-date=1 May 2013 |url-status=live}}
• Annual operating cost: $50 million per unit (in 2012 prices){{cite web|url=http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=14311|title=Facts favour nuclear-powered submarines|first=Simon|last=Cowan|date=5 November 2012|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121115023855/http://onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=14311|archive-date=2012-11-15|url-status=live}}
• Crew: 120 enlisted and 14 officers
• Armament: 12 VLS & four torpedo tubes, capable of launching Mark 48 torpedoes, UGM-109 Tactical Tomahawks, Harpoon missiles{{cite web

|url=http://news.usni.org/2016/02/18/west-u-s-navy-anti-ship-tomahawk-set-for-surface-ships-subs-starting-in-2021

|title=West: U.S. Navy Anti-Ship Tomahawk Set for Surface Ships, Subs Starting in 2021

|date=18 February 2016

|access-date=18 February 2016

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611002318/https://news.usni.org/2016/02/18/west-u-s-navy-anti-ship-tomahawk-set-for-surface-ships-subs-starting-in-2021

|archive-date=11 June 2017

|url-status=live}} and the new advanced mobile mine when it becomes available.{{Cite web |title=NavSource Online: Submarine Photo Index: Wahoo (SSN-806) |url=https://navsource.org/archives/08/08806.htm |access-date=9 November 2022 |website=navsource.org}} Block V boats will have the additional VPM module which contains four large diameter tubes which can accommodate seven Tomahawk cruise missiles each. This would increase the total number of torpedo-sized weapons (such as Tomahawks) carried by the Virginia-class design from about 37 to about 65—an increase of about 76%.{{cite web

|url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32418.pdf |title= Navy Virginia (SSN774) Class Attack Submarine Procurement: Background and Issues for Congress (updated)

|publisher=fas.org

|date=31 March 2022

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126101711/https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32418.pdf

|archive-date=26 November 2015

|access-date=27 April 2022}}

• Decoys: Acoustic Device Countermeasure Mk 3/4{{cite web

|url=http://www.ultra-os.com/acoustic.php

|title=Acoustic Countermeasures

|publisher=Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems

|access-date=15 December 2012

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120815031301/http://www.ultra-os.com/acoustic.php

|archive-date=15 August 2012

|url-status=dead}}

File:USS Texas (SSN-775) christening ceremony.jpg

Block I includes 4 boats and modular construction techniques were incorporated during construction.{{cite web |last=Patani |first=Arif |url=http://navylive.dodlive.mil/2012/09/24/next-generation-ohio-class/ |title=Next Generation Ohio-Class |website=Navy Live |publisher=US Navy |date=24 September 2012 |access-date=21 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130428124226/http://navylive.dodlive.mil/2012/09/24/next-generation-ohio-class/ |archive-date=28 April 2013 |url-status=live}} Earlier submarines (e.g., Los Angeles-class SSNs) were built by assembling the pressure hull and then installing the equipment via cavities in the pressure hull. This required extensive construction activities within the narrow confines of the pressure hull which was time-consuming and dangerous. Modular construction was implemented in an effort to overcome these problems and make the construction process more efficient. Modular construction techniques incorporated during construction include constructing large segments of equipment outside the hull. These segments (dubbed rafts) are then inserted into a hull section (a large segment of the pressure hull). The integrated raft and hull section form a module which, when joined with other modules, forms a Virginia-class submarine.{{cite news |first1=John D. |last1=Holmander |first2=Thomas |last2=Plante |title=The Four-Module Build Plan: The Second Decade of Virginia-class Construction Gets Better |journal=Undersea Warfare |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_43/build_plan.html |publisher=US Navy |date=Winter 2011 |issue=43 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924120328/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_43/build_plan.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=dead}} Block I boats were built in 10 modules with each submarine requiring roughly 7 years (84 months) to build.{{cite conference |last1=Johnson |first1=David C. |first2=George M. |last2=Drakeley |first3=George M. |last3=Smith |title=Engineering the Solution: Virginia-Class Submarine Cost Reduction |conference=Engineering the Total Ship (ETS) 2008 |url=https://www.navalengineers.org/SiteCollectionDocuments/2008%20Proceedings%20Documents/ETS%202008/VA%20Class%20ASNE%20Paper%20FINAL.pdf |location=Falls Church, Virginia |publisher=American Society of Naval Engineers |date=23 September 2008 |access-date=21 April 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203084604/https://www.navalengineers.org/SiteCollectionDocuments/2008%20Proceedings%20Documents/ETS%202008/VA%20Class%20ASNE%20Paper%20FINAL.pdf |archive-date=3 February 2014}}

{{clear}}

File:US Navy 080621-N-8467N-001 Pre-commissioning Unit New Hampshire (SSN 778) sits moored to the pier at General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard moments before her christening ceremony commenced.jpg

Block II comprised 6 boats; they were built in four sections rather than ten, saving about $300 million per boat. Block II boats (except the New Hampshire) were also built under a multi-year procurement agreement as opposed to a block-buy contract in Block I, enabling savings in the range of $400 million ($80 million per boat). As a result of improvements in the construction process, New Hampshire (SSN-778) was US$500 million cheaper, required 3.7 million fewer labor hours to build (25% less), thus shortening the construction period by 15 months (20% less) compared to Virginia.

{{clear}}

File:USS North Dakota (SSN-784) at sea in August 2014.JPG

Construction of Block III, {{USS|North Dakota|SSN-784|1}} through SSN-791 (8 boats), began in 2009. Block III subs feature a revised bow with a Large Aperture Bow (LAB) sonar array, as well as technology from Ohio-class SSGNs (2 VLS tubes each containing 6 missiles).{{cite news |date=21 December 2008 |title=Virginia Block III: The Revised Bow |work=Defense Industry Daily |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/virginia-block-iii-the-revised-bow-04159/ |access-date=20 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080621073152/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/virginia-block-iii-the-revised-bow-04159/ |archive-date=21 June 2008 |url-status=live}} The horseshoe-shaped LAB sonar array replaces the spherical main sonar array which has been used on all U.S. Navy SSNs since 1960.{{cite web |url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/history/subhistory3.html |title=Submarine Technology Through the Years |website=Chief of Naval Operations, Submarine Warfare Division, Submarine History |publisher=US Navy |date=19 July 1997 |access-date=23 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212063112/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/history/subhistory3.html |archive-date=12 February 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Lambert |url=http://www.usstullibee.com/tullibeehistory.html |title=Official USS Tullibee (SSN 597) Web Site - USS Tullibee History |access-date=23 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140517121715/http://www.usstullibee.com/tullibeehistory.html |archive-date=17 May 2014 |url-status=dead}} The LAB sonar array is water-backed—as opposed to earlier sonar arrays which were air-backed—and consists of a passive array and a medium-frequency active array.{{cite web |url=http://www.navsource.org/archives/08/08784.htm |title=North Dakota (SSN-784) |website=NavSource Online: Submarine Photo Archive |access-date=22 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140517122541/http://www.navsource.org/archives/08/08784.htm |archive-date=17 May 2014 |url-status=live}} Compared to earlier Virginia-class submarines about 40% of the bow has been redesigned.{{clarify|date=January 2015}}{{cite news |last=LaGrone |first=Sam |url=http://news.usni.org/2014/04/17/navy-delays-commissioning-latest-nuclear-attack-submarine |title=Navy Delays Commissioning of Latest Nuclear Attack Submarine |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=17 April 2014 |access-date=22 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429121624/http://news.usni.org/2014/04/17/navy-delays-commissioning-latest-nuclear-attack-submarine |archive-date=29 April 2014 |url-status=live}}

South Dakota (SSN-790) will be equipped with a new propulsor,{{cite web

|url=http://seapowermagazine.org/stories/20160812-sdak.html

|title=Posted:New Acoustic Quieting to be Tested on Submarine South Dakota

|publisher=seapowermagazine.org

|date=12 August 2016

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022223715/http://seapowermagazine.org/stories/20160812-sdak.html

|archive-date=22 October 2016

|access-date=27 April 2022}} possibly the Hybrid Multi-Material Rotor (HMMR),{{cite web

|url=http://www.darpa.mil/attachments/TTOProposersDay2016PresentationFINAL.PDF |title=Welcome to Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Tactical Technology Office (TTO) Proposers Day

|publisher=darpa.mil

|date=21 April 2016

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161023050834/http://www.darpa.mil/attachments/TTOProposersDay2016PresentationFINAL.PDF |archive-date=23 October 2016

|access-date=27 April 2022}}{{cite web

|url=http://www.summit-group.com/Projects/Maritime.html

|title=SEG projects in the Maritime domain

|publisher=summit-group.com

|date=2012

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331235250/http://summit-group.com/Projects/Maritime.html

|archive-date=31 March 2015

|access-date=27 April 2022}} developed by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The Hybrid Multi-Material Rotor program is an attempt to improve the design and manufacturing process of submarine propellers with an aim of reducing the cost and weight of the propeller/rotor as well as improving overall acoustic performance.

{{clear}}

File:USS Vermont (SSN-792) underway on the Thames River at Groton, Connecticut (USA), on 15 October 2020 (201015-N-AY957-202).JPG

Block IV consists of 10 submarines.{{cite web |title=U.S. Navy Fact Sheet Attack Submarines - SSN |url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_print.asp?cid=4100&tid=100&ct=4&page=1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081122021103/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_print.asp?cid=4100&tid=100&ct=4&page=1 |archive-date=22 November 2008 |access-date=7 September 2016 |publisher=Naval Sea Systems Command}} The 2013 budget sequestration put this 10-submarine in doubt by budget sequestration that same year.{{cite news |url=http://breakingdefense.com/2013/09/navy-to-hasc-were-about-to-sign-sub-deals-we-cant-pay-for/ |title=Navy To HASC: We're About To Sign Sub Deals We Can't Pay For |first=Sydney |last=Freedburg |date=12 September 2013 |work=Breaking Defense |access-date=12 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113065601/http://breakingdefense.com/2013/09/navy-to-hasc-were-about-to-sign-sub-deals-we-cant-pay-for/ |archive-date=13 November 2013 |url-status=live}} The most costly shipbuilding contract in history, worth $17.6 billion, was awarded on 28 April 2014 to General Dynamics Electric Boat. The main improvement over the Block III is the reduction of major maintenance periods from four to three, increasing each boat's total lifetime deployments by one.{{cite news |last=LaGrone |first=Sam |title=U.S. Navy Awards 'Largest Shipbuilding Contract' in Service History |url=http://news.usni.org/2014/04/28/u-s-navy-awards-largest-shipbuilding-contract-service-history |date=28 April 2014 |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |access-date=28 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429051159/http://news.usni.org/2014/04/28/u-s-navy-awards-largest-shipbuilding-contract-service-history |archive-date=29 April 2014 |url-status=live}}

The long-lead-time materials contract for SSN-792 was awarded on 17 April 2012, with SSN-793 and SSN-794 following on 28 December 2012.{{cite press release |url=https://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4771 |title=Contracts |date=17 April 2012 |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522171706/http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4771 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |url-status=live}}{{cite press release |url=http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4946 |title=Contracts |date=28 December 2012 |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921085438/http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4946 |archive-date=21 September 2013 |url-status=dead}} The U.S. Navy has awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat a $208.6 million contract modification for the second fiscal year (FY) 14 Virginia-class submarine, SSN-793, and two FY 15 submarines, SSN-794 and SSN-795. With this modification, the overall contract is worth $595 million.{{cite press release |title=General Dynamics Awarded $209 Million for Future Virginia-class Submarines |url=http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/detail.cfm?customel_dataPageID_1811=18534 |publisher=General Dynamics - Electric Boat |location=Groton, Connecticut |date=1 July 2013 |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130808103005/http://generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/detail.cfm?customel_dataPageID_1811=18534 |archive-date=8 August 2013 |url-status=live}}

{{clear}}

Block V has 12 boats and may incorporate the Virginia Payload Module (VPM), which would give guided-missile capability when the SSGNs are retired from service.{{cite web |title=Virginia Payload Module (VPM) |website=General Dynamics - Electric Boat |url=http://www.gdeb.com/news/advertising/ |access-date=4 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524095723/http://www.gdeb.com/news/advertising/ |archive-date=24 May 2011 |url-status=live}} The Virginia Payload Module will be included on Block V submarines starting with the second boat, SSN-803.{{cite web|url=https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2169558/attack-submarines-ssn/|title=Attack Submarines - SSN |date=8 October 2021|access-date=14 August 2022}} The Block V boats with VPM are expected to triple the capacity of shore targets for each boat. Construction on the first two boats of this block was expected to begin in 2019 but was pushed back to 2020, with contracts for long lead time material for SSN-802 and SSN-803 being awarded to General Dynamics Electric Boat.{{cite web|url=https://www.gd.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long|title=General Dynamics Awarded $126 Million by US Navy for Virginia-class Block V Long Lead Time Material|publisher=gd.com|date=16 February 2017|access-date=25 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226130302/https://www.gd.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long|archive-date=26 December 2017|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gdeb.com/news/news_archives/2017archives.html#02-16-17|title=General Dynamics Electric Boat archives: 26 February 2017 Block V press release|publisher=gdeb.com|access-date=7 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180108062513/http://www.gdeb.com/news/news_archives/2017archives.html#02-16-17|archive-date=8 January 2018|url-status=live}} HII Newport News Shipbuilding was awarded a long-lead materials contract for two Block V boats in 2017, the first Block Vs for the company.{{cite web|url=http://newsroom.huntingtoningalls.com/releases/huntington-ingalls-industries-reports-first-quarter-2017-results|title=Huntington Ingalls Industries reports first quarter 2017 results|date=4 May 2017|access-date=7 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180108063636/http://newsroom.huntingtoningalls.com/releases/huntington-ingalls-industries-reports-first-quarter-2017-results|archive-date=8 January 2018|url-status=live}}

On 2 December 2019, the Navy announced an order for nine new Virginia-class submarines—eight Block Vs and one Block IV—for a total contract price of $22 billion with an option for a tenth boat.{{cite web| url = https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a30109198/block-v-virginia-submarine/| title = Popular Mechanics| date = 3 December 2019}} The Block V subs were confirmed to have an increased length, from 377 ft (115 m) to 460 ft (140 m), and displacement, from 7,800 tons to 10,200 tons. This would make the Block V the second-longest US submarine, behind only the {{sclass|Ohio|submarine}}s (at 560 ft; 170 m).{{cite web|url=https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/u-s-navy-orders-new-block-of-attack-submarines|title=U.S. Navy Orders New Block of Attack Submarines|publisher=maritime-executive.com|date=3 December 2019|access-date=18 August 2021}}

On 22 March 2021, the U.S. Navy added the 10th boat of the Block V series of the Virginia-class attack submarine, issuing a $2.4 billion adjustment on the December 2019 contract. This brings the total cost of the contract with prime contractor General Dynamics Electric Boat to $24.1 billion. The net increase for the contract is $1.89 billion, according to a General Dynamics release. Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding is the partner yard in the program.{{cite web |url = https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2021/03/19/the-us-navy-inks-a-deal-for-a-tenth-block-v-virginia-class-submarine/ |title = US Navy inks deal for a tenth Virginia-class submarine |author = David Larter |publisher = Defense News |date = 2021-03-22}}

The Navy initially planned to acquire at least 30 Virginia-class submarines,{{cite web |url=http://www.jeffhead.com/usn21/nssn.htm |title=US Navy 21st Century - SSN Virginia Class |publisher=Jeffhead.com |access-date=25 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411004055/http://www.jeffhead.com/usn21/nssn.htm |archive-date=11 April 2013 |url-status=usurped}}{{cite web |url=http://www.submarinesuppliers.org/programs/index.php |title=Submarine Industrial Base Council |publisher=Submarinesuppliers.org |date=22 December 2008 |access-date=25 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119163338/http://www.submarinesuppliers.org/programs/index.php |archive-date=19 January 2012}} however, more recent data provided by the Naval Submarine League (in 2011) and the Congressional Budget Office (in 2012) seems to imply that more than 30 submarines may eventually be built. The Naval Submarine League believes that up to 10 Block V boats will be built.{{cite web |url=http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/default.aspx |title=Naval Submarine League |publisher=Navalsubleague.com |access-date=25 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125120330/http://www.navalsubleague.com/NSL/default.aspx/ |archive-date=25 January 2013}} The same source also states that 10 additional submarines could be built after Block V submarines, with 5 in the so-called Block VI and 5 in Block VII, largely due to the delays experienced with the "Improved Virginia". These 20 submarines (10 Block V, 5 Block VI, 5 Block VII) would carry VPM bringing the total number of Virginia-class submarines to 48 (including the 28 submarines in Blocks I, II, III and IV). The CBO in its 2012 report states that 33 Virginia-class submarines will be procured in the 2013–2032 timeframe, resulting in 49 submarines in total since 16 were already procured by the end of 2012.{{cite web |url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_04_10_2013_p0-567382.xml |title=Funding For U.S. Navy Subs Runs Deep |work=Aviation Week |date=10 April 2013 |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520220537/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fawx_04_10_2013_p0-567382.xml |archive-date=20 May 2013 |url-status=live}} Such a long production run seems unlikely but another naval program, the {{sclass|Arleigh Burke|destroyer|1}}, is still ongoing even though the first vessel was ordered in 1985.{{cite news |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32109.pdf |title=Navy DDG-51 and DDG-1000 Destroyer Programs: Background and Issues for Congress |first=Ronald |last=O'Rourke |date=22 October 2013 |work=Congressional Research Service |access-date=12 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328211730/http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32109.pdf |archive-date=28 March 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=McCullough III |first=Bernard |url=http://www.usni.org/print/25780 |title=Now Hear This - The Right Destroyer at the Right Time |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=January 2013 |volume=139 |issue=1/1,319 |access-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016051956/http://www.usni.org/print/25780 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |url-status=live}} However, other sources believe that production will end with Block V.{{cite web |first=John |last=Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/ssn-774.htm |title=SSN-774 Virginia-class NSSN New Attack Submarine |publisher=Globalsecurity.org |access-date=25 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122000352/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/ssn-774.htm |archive-date=22 January 2013 |url-status=live}} In addition, data provided in CBO reports tends to vary considerably compared to earlier editions.

One Block VI submarine will include an organic ability to employ seabed warfare equipment.{{cite web |last1=Eckstein |first1=Megan |title=Navy New Virginia Block VI Virginia Attack Boat Will Inform SSN(X) |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/prized-ohio-guided-missile-submarine-will-be-gone-from-navy-by-2028 |website=thedrive.com |date=18 April 2023 |publisher=TheDrive |access-date=18 April 2023 |archive-date=19 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419185837/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/prized-ohio-guided-missile-submarine-will-be-gone-from-navy-by-2028 |url-status=dead }}

General Dynamics Electric Boat, a business unit of General Dynamics, announced on 5 August 2024 it has been awarded a $1.3 billion undefinitized contract modification allowing Electric Boat to purchase long lead time materials for Virginia Class Block VI submarines.[https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/3862089/ General Dynamics Electric Boat awarded $1.3 billion contract modification for long lead time material for Virginia-class submarines]. defense.gov

During the Naval Submarine League's annual symposium on 13 November 2024 plans for extending Virginia class to Block VIII - due to SSN(X) delays - were voiced.[https://news.usni.org/2024/11/13/naval-reactors-virginia-class-will-extend-to-block-viii-ssnx-start-in-2040s Naval Reactors: Virginia-class Will Extend to Block VIII, SSN(X) Start in 2040s]

{{Main|SSN(X)-class submarine}}

Initially dubbed Future Attack Submarine{{cite web|url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/fas.htm|title=Future Attack Submarine|publisher=Federation of American Scientists|access-date=25 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126100134/https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/fas.htm|archive-date=26 November 2015|url-status=live}} and Improved Virginia class in early Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reports, the SSN(X) will instead be a largely new design that initially supplements and eventually replaces the Virginia class submarines.

In late 2014, the US Navy began early preparation work on the SSN(X). It was planned that the first submarine would be procured in 2025. However, their introduction (i.e., procurement of the first submarine) has been pushed back to 2033/2034.{{cite report |title=An Analysis of the Navy's Fiscal Year 2011 Shipbuilding Plan |url=http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/05-25-navyshipbuilding.pdf |publisher=Congressional Budget Office |number=Pub. No. 4116 |date=May 2010 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141208153155/http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/05-25-navyshipbuilding.pdf |archive-date=8 December 2014 |url-status=live}} The long-range shipbuilding plan is for the new SSN to be authorized in 2034, and become operational by 2044 after the last Block VII Virginia is built. Roughly a decade would be spent identifying, designing, and demonstrating new technologies before an analysis of alternatives is issued in 2024. An initial small team has been formed to consult with industry and identify the threat environment and technologies the submarine will need to operate against in the 2050-plus timeframe.

In 2019, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the SSN(X) boats could cost up to $5.5 billion per hull. The current Virginia-class boats cost about $2.8 billion per hull, while the Block V boats with the 80-foot Virginia Payload Module will cost about $3.2 billion. "The Navy indicates that the next-generation attack submarine should be faster, stealthier, and able to carry more torpedoes than the Virginia class, similar to the Seawolf-class submarine. CBO therefore assumed that the SSN(X) would be a Seawolf-sized SSN, which displaces about 9,100 tons when submerged, and would have an all-new design in keeping with the Navy's description of it as a fast, lethal next-generation attack submarine", the CBO wrote.{{cite news |first=Sam |last=LaGore |title=Next Generation SSN(X) Attack Sub 'Is Going to Carry a Lot of Torpedoes,' Says Admiral |url=https://news.usni.org/2021/11/22/next-generation-ssnx-attack-sub-is-going-to-carry-a-lot-of-torpedoes-says-admiral |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=22 November 2021 |access-date=24 November 2021 }}

On 16 September 2021, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that Australia had canceled its contract with French shipbuilder Naval Group for 12 {{sclass|Attack|submarine|0}} diesel-electric submarines based on the French {{sclass2|Barracuda|submarine|0||France}} nuclear submarine that were to replace Australia's diesel-electric {{sclass|Collins|submarine|2}}s.{{cite press release |author1=Prime Minister |author2=Minister for Defence |author3=Minister for Foreign Affairs |author4=Minister for Women |title=Australia to pursue Nuclear-powered Submarines through new Trilateral Enhanced Security Partnership |url=https://www.pm.gov.au/media/australia-pursue-nuclear-powered-submarines-through-new-trilateral-enhanced-security |website=Prime Minister of Australia |access-date=25 September 2021 |date=16 September 2021 |archive-date=27 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927191633/https://www.pm.gov.au/media/australia-pursue-nuclear-powered-submarines-through-new-trilateral-enhanced-security |url-status=dead }} The AUKUS trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, was announced the same day.{{cite press release |author1=Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison |author2=Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson |author3=President of the United States of America Joseph R. Biden |title=Joint Leaders Statement on AUKUS |url=https://www.pm.gov.au/media/joint-leaders-statement-aukus |website=Prime Minister of Australia |access-date=25 September 2021 |date=16 September 2021 |archive-date=27 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927191438/https://www.pm.gov.au/media/joint-leaders-statement-aukus |url-status=dead }} Under the pact, the US will share nuclear propulsion technology with Australia the same as it has with the UK since 1958 as will the UK.{{cite interview |last=Morrison |first=Prime Minister Scott |subject-link=Scott Morrison |interviewer=Jane Marwick |title=Interview with Jane Marwick, 6PR |work=6PR |date=16 September 2021 |location=Perth, Perth, Western Australia |url=https://www.pm.gov.au/media/interview-jane-marwick-6pr |access-date=27 September 2021 |archive-date=27 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927120740/https://www.pm.gov.au/media/interview-jane-marwick-6pr |url-status=dead }}{{cite report |last1=Ritchie |first1=Dr Nick |title=The UK Naval Nuclear Propulsion Programme and Highly Enriched Uranium |url=https://uploads.fas.org/2015/03/2015-FAS-UK-NNPP-HEU-final2.pdf |location=University of York, UK |date=February 2015 |access-date=27 September 2021}} The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) would acquire at least eight nuclear-powered submarines armed with conventional weapons with basic design and key technologies decided by an 18-month research project. On 22 November 2021, Australia, UK and the US signed the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information Agreement (ENNPIA) treaty to share classified information about nuclear propulsion.{{Cite web |last= |date=2021-11-23 |title=Australia, UK and USA Formally Sign Agreement On Nuclear Submarine |url=https://www.globaldefensecorp.com/2021/11/23/australia-uk-and-usa-formally-sign-agreement-on-nuclear-submarine/ |access-date=2021-11-23 |website=Global Defense Corp |language=en-US}}{{cite book |author1=Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office |title=Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Australia, and the Government of the United States of America for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information |date=2021 |publisher=Her Majesty's Stationery Office |isbn=9781528630351 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1036009/MS_8.2021_Agreement_UK_USA_Australia_Naval_Nuclear_Propulsion.pdf |access-date=13 January 2022 |series=Miscellaneous Series No.8 (2021)}}

On 13 March 2023, AUKUS announced that "in the early 2030s, pending Congressional approval, the United States intends to sell Australia three Virginia-class submarines, with the potential to sell up to two more if needed". These submarines will ensure there is no capability gap between when the Collins-class is retired and the introduction of a new class of nuclear-powered submarines the SSN-AUKUS.{{OGL-attribution|version=3.0|{{cite web |author1=Ministry of Defence |author2=Defence Nuclear Organisation |title=The AUKUS Nuclear Powered-Submarine Pathway: A Partnership for the Future |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1142588/The_AUKUS_nuclear_powered_submarine_pathway_a_partnership_for_the_future.pdf |access-date=17 March 2023 |date=14 March 2023 |ref={{harvid|Ministry of Defence|2023}} |pages=7}}}}{{cite web|title=Australia to buy US submarines to bridge gap before UK-design boats|date=10 March 2023|first1= Demetri|last1= Sevastopulo|first2 =Sylvia|last2 =Pfeifer|first3 =John Paul|last3=Rathbone|website= Financial Times|url=https://www.ft.com/content/d5035343-8816-4390-a4dc-04579665849c|access-date=11 March 2023}} AUKUS also announced on the same day, the UK's SSNR submarine design will be renamed SSN-AUKUS and be trilaterally developed and built in the UK and in Australia.{{sfn|Ministry of Defence|2023|p=7}}{{cite web |title=Design work begins on successor to Astute-class submarines in £170m deal |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/september/17/20210917-astute-successor |website=Royal Navy |access-date=19 March 2023 |date=17 September 2021}} The SSN-AUKUS class "will have a high degree of commonality" with the Virginia-class, including "sharing elements of the propulsion plant, combat system and weapons".{{sfn|Ministry of Defence|2023|p=29}}

The first in-service United States Navy Block IV Virginia-class boat is planned to be sold to the RAN in 2032 and the second in-service Block IV in 2035.{{cite news |last1=Eckstein |first1=Megan |title=Here's when the US Navy plans to sell subs to Australia under AUKUS |url=https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2023/11/13/heres-when-the-us-navy-plans-to-sell-subs-to-australia-under-aukus/ |access-date=17 November 2023 |work=Defense News |publisher=Sightline Media Group |date=17 November 2023}}{{cite web |author1=Defence Minister Richard Marles |title=Interview with Andrew Clennell, Sky News |url=https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/transcripts/2023-03-14/interview-andrew-clennell-sky-news |website=Department of Defence Ministers |access-date=17 March 2023 |date=14 March 2023 |archive-date=17 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317140713/https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/transcripts/2023-03-14/interview-andrew-clennell-sky-news |url-status=dead }} The third boat to be sold to the RAN in 2038 will be a new Block VII without the Virginia Payload Module.{{cite news |last1=Greene |first1=Andrew |title=First newly built nuclear-powered submarine under AUKUS likely to be sold in 2038, US admiral reveals |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-09/aukus-submarine-sales-timelines-revealed/103083780 |access-date=17 November 2023 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=9 November 2023}} The first boat of the SSN-AUKUS class for the RAN is planned to be delivered in the early 2040s.{{sfn|Ministry of Defence|2023|p=7}} Five boats are planned to be built with a boat built every three years.{{cite web |last1=Briggs |first1=Peter |title=How many nuclear-powered submarines for Australia? |url=https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/how-many-nuclear-powered-submarines-for-australia/ |website=The Strategist — Australian Strategic Policy Institute |access-date=15 October 2023 |date=12 October 2023}}{{cite web |author1=Minister for Defence Richard Marles |title=AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine pathway, House of Representatives, Parliament House, Canberra ACT |url=https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/statements/2023-03-22/aukus-nuclear-powered-submarine-pathway-house-representatives-parliament-house-canberra-act |website=Department of Defence Ministers |access-date=15 October 2023 |date=22 March 2023 |archive-date=31 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230831000719/https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/statements/2023-03-22/aukus-nuclear-powered-submarine-pathway-house-representatives-parliament-house-canberra-act |url-status=dead }} If the SSN-AUKUS build schedule falls behind, the RAN has the option of purchasing up to two additional Virginia-class boats.{{cite web |author1=Defence Minister Richard Marles |author2=Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy |title=Press conference - Parliament House, Canberra |url=https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/transcripts/2023-03-14/press-conference-parliament-house-canberra |website=Department of Defence Ministers |access-date=16 March 2023 |date=14 March 2023 |archive-date=16 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316152157/https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/transcripts/2023-03-14/press-conference-parliament-house-canberra |url-status=dead }}

{{Portal|United States}}

• List of submarine classes of the United States Navy
• List of submarines of the United States Navy
• List of submarine classes in service
• Submarines in the United States Navy
• Cruise missile submarine
• List of current United States Navy ships

{{Reflist}}

• {{cite book |last=Clancy |first=Tom |date=2002 |title=Submarine: A Guided Tour Inside A Nuclear Warship |location=New York |publisher=Berkley Books |isbn=978-0-425-18300-7 |oclc=48749330 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/submarineguidedt00clan}}
• {{cite book |last=Christley |first=J. L. |date=2000 |title=United States Naval Submarine Force Information Book |location=Marblehead, Massachusetts |publisher=Graphic Enterprises of Marblehead |oclc=53364278}}
• {{cite book |last=Christley |first=Jim |title=US Nuclear Submarines: The Fast Attack |location=Oxford, UK |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing|date=2007 |isbn=978-1-84603-168-7 |oclc=141383046}}
• {{cite book |last1=Cross |first1=Wilbur |first2=George W. |last2=Feise |title=Encyclopedia of American Submarines |location=New York |publisher=Facts on File |date=2003 |isbn=978-0-8160-4460-3 |oclc=48131805 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/encyclopediaofam0000cros}}
• {{cite book |last1=Gresham |first1=John |last2=Westwell |first2=Ian |title=Seapower |location=Edison, New Jersey |publisher=Chartwell Books |date=2004 |isbn=978-0-7858-1792-5 |oclc=56578494}}
• {{cite journal |last=Holian |first=Thomas |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_33/virginia.html |title=Voices from Virginia: Early Impressions from a First-in-Class |journal=Undersea Warfare |date=Winter 2007 |volume=9 |issue=2 |access-date=5 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131031335/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_33/virginia.html |archive-date=31 January 2016 |url-status=dead}}
• {{cite journal |last1=Johnson |first1=Dave|last2=Muniz |first2=Dustin |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_33/more.html |title=More for Less: The Navy's Plan to Reduce Costs on Virginia-class Submarines While Increasing Production |journal=Undersea Warfare |date=Winter 2007 |volume=9 |issue=2 |access-date=5 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131041351/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_33/more.html |archive-date=31 January 2016 |url-status=dead}}
• {{cite journal |last=Little |first=Molly |url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/usw_summer_08/elements.html |title=The Elements of Virginia |journal=Undersea Warfare Magazine |date=Summer 2008 |issue=38|access-date=15 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090401050951/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/usw_summer_08/elements.html |archive-date=1 April 2009 |url-status=dead}} Updates on the boats of the Virginia-class
• {{cite journal |last=Little |first=Molly |url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/usw_summer_08/q&a.html |title=A Snapshot of the Virginia-class With Rear Adm. (sel.) Dave Johnson |journal=Undersea Warfare |date=Summer 2008 |issue=38 |access-date=15 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090401050519/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/usw_summer_08/q%26a.html |archive-date=1 April 2009 |url-status=dead}} Q&A on the Virginia-class program since the Winter 2007 article
• {{cite book |last=Parker |first=John |title=The World Encyclopedia of Submarines |location=London |publisher=Lorenz |date=2007 |isbn=978-0-7548-1707-9 |oclc=75713655}}
• {{cite book |last=Polmar |first=Norman |title=The Naval Institute Guide to the Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet |location=Annapolis, Maryland |publisher=Naval Institute Press |date=2001 |isbn=978-1-55750-656-6 |oclc=47105698}}
• {{cite report |title=The Virginia Class Submarine Program |location=Fort Belvoir, Virginia |publisher=Defense Standardization Program Office |date=2007 |oclc=427536804}}

{{Library resources box}}

{{Commons category|Virginia class submarines}}

• [https://www.history.navy.mil/ Naval History & Heritage Command]
• [http://www.military.com/equipment/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn VIRGINIA CLASS ATTACK SUBMARINE - SSN]
• {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20140420055222/https://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/hq/Pages/VirginiaClass.aspx Stealth, Endurance, and Agility Under the Sea]}}
• [http://xpda.com/virginiasubs/ Virginia Class Submarines] Some U.S. Navy Photos of Virginia-class submarines
• [http://www.submarinesuppliers.org/ Submarine Industrial Base Resources] Information about the Submarine Industrial Base

{{Virginia class submarine}}

{{Active ship classes of the United States Navy}}

{{Current SSN}}

{{US submarine classes after 1945}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Virginia Class Submarine}}

Category:Submarine classes

Category:Cruise missile submarines

Category:Attack submarines

Category:Naval ships of the United States

Category:Submarines of the United States Navy

Category:Submarines of the United States