The USS New Jersey (SSN-796) represents the latest iteration of a proud naval tradition, carrying a name previously borne by two formidable battleships. This Block IV Virginia-class submarine, constructed by Newport News Shipbuilding, continues a legacy that dates back to the early 20th century. The decision to name this advanced submarine after the state of New Jersey was officially announced in May 2015, marking a significant moment for both the Navy
and the state. Its journey from concept to active service involved several key construction milestones, reflecting the complex and precise nature of modern submarine building.
A Name Steeped in Naval History
The name "New Jersey" has a distinguished history within the United States Navy, with the SSN-796 being the third vessel to bear it. The first two ships were battleships: BB-16 and BB-62. USS New Jersey (BB-16) was commissioned in 1906, served until 1920, and was eventually sunk in bombing tests in 1923. The more widely known USS New Jersey (BB-62) was a formidable battleship commissioned in 1943, seeing active service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. This battleship is now preserved as a museum ship in Camden, New Jersey, serving as a tangible link to the state's naval heritage. The Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, formally announced the name for the SSN-796 on May 25, 2015, during a ceremony held in Jersey City, New Jersey, connecting the new submarine directly to this rich past.
Key Construction Milestones of SSN-796
The construction of the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) involved a series of critical stages, each marking significant progress in its development. The process began with the order placed on April 28, 2014, followed by the laying down of its keel on March 25, 2019. A major milestone, pressure hull completion, was achieved in February 2021. This particular stage is crucial as it signifies that all the submarine's hull sections have been successfully joined together to form a single, watertight unit, essential for its operational integrity under immense underwater pressure. This achievement is a testament to the advanced engineering and construction techniques employed by Newport News Shipbuilding.
From Christening to Commissioning
Following the pressure hull completion, the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) proceeded through further ceremonial and practical steps towards its readiness for service. The submarine was christened on November 13, 2021, a traditional naval ceremony that formally introduces the vessel. It was then launched on April 14, 2022, marking its first entry into the water. The final stages involved its delivery to the Navy on April 25, 2024, and its official commissioning on September 14, 2024. The commissioning ceremony took place at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey, further solidifying its connection to its namesake state. This progression from initial order to active service highlights the extensive timeline and numerous steps required to bring a modern submarine into the fleet.
Challenges and Oversight in Construction
Even with advanced construction processes, challenges can arise. In October 2024, the Navy reported an issue concerning substandard welds on the USS New Jersey. It was found that welders had purposely circumvented proper procedures during construction. However, the Navy clarified that these faulty welds did not compromise the safety of the vessel. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous quality control and adherence to established protocols in complex shipbuilding projects like that of a nuclear-powered submarine. Despite this issue, the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) was delivered and commissioned, ready to fulfill its role in the United States Navy, homeported in Norfolk, Virginia.
