US Navy Commissions Advanced Virginia-Class Submarine USS New Jersey, Bolstering Maritime Superiority

The U.S. Navy officially welcomed its latest hunter-killer submarine, the USS New Jersey (SSN 796), into service on September 14, 2024. The commissioning ceremony took place at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey, and marked a significant milestone in the Navy’s submarine fleet. This new vessel is the third to bear the name "New Jersey," following the famed battleship BB-62, which served with distinction during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. 

The USS New Jersey is a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, part of a series of advanced submarines designed for a wide range of missions in both deep and shallow waters. At 377 feet long and with a 34-foot beam, this submarine is an impressive sight. Its capabilities are equally formidable: it can dive beyond 800 feet and reach speeds exceeding 25 knots, making it a swift and elusive presence beneath the waves.

Cmdr. Steve Halle, the commanding officer of the USS New Jersey, called the moment "historic," emphasizing the hard work and dedication of both the crew and the shipbuilders responsible for bringing the vessel to life. In his remarks, he stated, “You operate the most complex platform on the planet, and you continuously strive for excellence. I’m amazed and humbled at what we have accomplished.”

One of the unique features of the USS New Jersey is its fully integrated crew. Cmdr. Halle highlighted the significance of this aspect, noting how the diversity and professionalism of the crew enhance the submarine's operational performance. “Our superior professionalism is enhanced by our crew integration and our diversity. We have exceeded expectations at every turn,” he said.

The commissioning was a ceremonial yet powerful event. Susan DiMarco, the ship’s sponsor and wife of former Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, gave the traditional command to “man our ship and bring her to life.” The crew responded with an enthusiastic “aye aye, ma’am” as they ran aboard the submarine, signaling its readiness for active duty.

The USS New Jersey is equipped for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, intelligence gathering, and special operations. It can also launch Tomahawk cruise missiles, allowing it to project power across vast distances. With a crew of 135, this vessel is designed to operate independently for extended periods, providing vital intelligence and surveillance in areas of strategic importance. 

At the commissioning, New Jersey Governor Philip Murphy and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro both praised the submarine's advanced capabilities, noting how crucial fast-attack submarines are in modern naval strategy. Del Toro emphasized that submarines like the USS New Jersey are essential for supporting the Navy’s core missions, including sea control, power projection, maritime security, and deterrence.

The Virginia-class submarines are among the most technologically advanced in the world. Built by Newport News Shipbuilding and General Dynamics Electric Boat, these vessels feature cutting-edge stealth technologies, sonar systems, and weapons platforms that make them highly effective in diverse environments. They are capable of engaging enemy submarines, surface ships, and providing support to special operations forces. 

As the Navy’s latest fast-attack submarine, the USS New Jersey is expected to play a pivotal role in global naval operations. Its advanced design allows it to function as both a hunter and protector, whether it’s defending U.S. interests or projecting power in contested regions. The integration of sophisticated weaponry, intelligence-gathering tools, and elite crew members ensures that it will maintain the U.S. Navy’s superiority on the high seas for years to come.

As Cmdr. Halle concluded in his speech, “The legacy we have inherited from the state of New Jersey and the battleship BB-62 will carry forward in our pursuit of greatness. Today, we commissioned our ship, and she is the fastest, most advanced, fully integrated fast-attack submarine to date.”

The USS New Jersey is now fully operational, prepared to safeguard U.S. interests and contribute to maintaining peace and stability in waters across the globe.