US launches Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine USS Iowa
It will receive Tomahawk vertical-launched cruise missiles
General Dynamics Electric Boat has launched the Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Iowa (SSN 797). The ceremony took place at the company’s shipyard in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
The USS Iowa (SSN 797) is a Block IV nuclear-powered submarine. It is designed to fight against enemy submarines and surface ships. The Block IV submarines are characterized by accelerated construction rates and a longer service life.
Another milestone reached for #PCUIowa!
Following her roll out from @GDElectricBoat‘s assembly building in Groton, CT, on August 11, PCU Iowa made her way to Graving Dock 3, which was filled with water to result in yet another major milestone-float off.
These recent milestones… pic.twitter.com/HTQ5pKt69g
– GD Electric Boat (@GDElectricBoat) August 23, 2023
If all goes according to plan, the USS Iowa (SSN 797) will enter the fleet next year. The Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine became the fourth ship in the U.S. Navy to be named after the state of Iowa.
USS Iowa (SSN 797) is equipped with the Mk 41 vertical launch system. It will be able to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles to destroy land and surface targets. The submarine will also be armed with Mk 48 torpedoes.
