Virginia-class (SSN-774)

The Virginia class, designated SSN-774, is a series of nuclear-powered attack submarines developed for the United States Navy. Initiated in 1991 under the Centurion Study, the program was designed as a cost-effective alternative to the Seawolf class. It was the first US Navy warship class developed using 3D visualization technology and computer-aided engineering. Construction is distributed between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding through an industrial arrangement intended to maintain both production facilities.

The design utilizes modular construction and incorporates commercial off-the-shelf components in its data networks. Propulsion is provided by an S9G nuclear reactor and a pump-jet propulsor. The class replaces traditional optical periscopes with photonic masts equipped with high-resolution cameras and infrared sensors. Because these masts do not penetrate the pressure hull, the control room is located in a position independent of the sail. Electronic systems use an open-system architecture to facilitate hardware and software updates. Block III and subsequent vessels replaced individual launch tubes with large-diameter payload tubes, while Block V vessels include an additional mid-body section to increase missile capacity. The class also features fly-by-wire ship control systems and an integral lock-out diving chamber for special operations.

USS Virginia entered service in 2004. The class is scheduled to replace Los Angeles-class attack submarines and the cruise missile variants of the Ohio class. Following the decommissioning of USS Helena in 2025, the Virginia class became the most numerous active submarine class in service. The United States Navy plans to operate 66 vessels, with procurement expected to continue through 2043. In 2023, the AUKUS security pact established that the Royal Australian Navy will purchase three Virginia-class submarines beginning in the early 2030s to replace its Collins-class fleet. Future production plans include Block VI variants specialized for seabed warfare and intelligence operations. These vessels are projected to remain in service until at least 2060, with later units operating into the 2070s.