On December 21, 2024, the US Navy received its twelfth nuclear attack submarine of the year. The USS Iowa, codenamed SSN 797, is a Virginia-class vessel that will soon be commissioned for the next 30 years.
A giant of the deep
Newly delivered and soon to be put into service by the US Navy, the USS Iowa is a building that impresses with its dimensions.
In the water, this nuclear attack submarine has a length of 115 meters, a width of 10.36 meters and can displace 7,900 tons of water. Powered by a nuclear reactor, it can reach an average speed of 25 knots or 46 km/h.
Capable of descending to a depth of 240 meters, it can accommodate a crew of 135 people as well as a very impressive arsenal. Ordered in 2014 alongside other similar buildings, it cost more than $2.5 billion.
It is the fruit of the work of the manufacturer General Dynamics Electric Boatan emblematic shipowner of the US Navy which has dealt with the US Navy since 1931 and whose first building, the USS Cuttlefish (SS-171), a diesel-electric submarine entered service in 1934 until 1947 .
Others will follow
From the order placed in 2014, the USS Iowa is the sixth submarine, out of 10, to have been delivered to the US Navy. And since 2004, the submarine recently entered the possession of the American army is the 24th Virginia class building to be delivered.
Sixteen vessels are still expected to join the ranks of the US Navy which continues to develop an ever more imposing army at sea. Later still, submarines of the same class, but a little larger, will also be delivered to the US Navy.
The latter, capable of the same feats as previous ships such as the USS Iowa, will be able to carry more equipment at sea as well as an even larger arsenal to allow the United States to ensure its sovereignty at sea.
When will the USS Iowa enter service?
The entry into service of a submarine takes place during an official ceremony which it is possible to attend. Thus, the official website of the USS Iowa already offers tickets to take part in this event.
To do this, you must complete an official form and therefore make a request to the US Navy. Officially, and if nothing disrupts the schedule, the USS Iowa should officially enter service with the United States Navy on April 5, 2025 at a naval base in Connecticut (Northeast United States).
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
