U.S. Navy Highlights Virginia-Class Submarine Return and Missile Redesignation

The nuclear‑powered fast‑attack submarine USS Virginia (SSN 774) completed a six‑month deployment to the U.S. European Command area and returned to Naval Submarine Base New London on 3 August 2026. Commanded by Cmdr. Jeremy Wheelis, the crew was welcomed by Capt. Thomas Flaherty of Submarine Squadron 4, who praised the submarine’s performance in demanding missions across the European theater.

In a related development, the U.S. Navy announced that 19 planned Virginia‑class submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module will be redesignated as guided‑missile submarines (SSGNs). Admiral Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations, said the change reflects the expanded strike capability, noting that the new boats will carry up to 40 Tomahawk cruise missiles and support future weapons such as hypersonic missiles. The redesignation aligns with the Navy’s plan to retire its Ohio‑class guided‑missile submarines by the decade’s end and underscores the growing role of these vessels in long‑range precision strike, deterrence, and distributed maritime operations.