US’ 7,800-ton submarine returns to fleet with 25-knot speed, nuclear endurance

USS New Jersey was returned to US Navy control after completing post-shakedown availability and sea trials.

Newport News Shipbuilding carried out upgrades that included combat systems and electronics alongside general maintenance.

The submarine is a Block IV Virginia-class vessel with nuclear endurance, two large-diameter payload tubes, and speeds above 25 knots.

The boat was delivered in April 2024 and commissioned in September 2024, and April 2026 marks its transition toward sustained fleet deployment.