MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, N.J. — The U.S. Navy commissioned the future USS New Jersey (SSN 796), a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, in a ceremony on Saturday at Naval Weapons Station Earle. The submarine is the first in its class designed to accommodate a gender-integrated crew, marking a significant milestone for the Navy.
The event, held on September 14, included remarks by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, who delivered the principal address, along with Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and other military and civilian leaders. Dr. Susan DiMarco, the ship’s sponsor and a New Jersey resident, gave the traditional order to “man our ship and bring her to life.”
The USS New Jersey is the third naval vessel named after the state and follows a legacy of distinguished battleships that served during both World Wars, the Korean War, and the Vietnam conflict. This new submarine is the fifth in the Block IV Virginia-class and was delivered on April 25, 2024.
With modifications to support a gender-neutral crew, the USS New Jersey reflects the Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and modernization.