Virginiaclass

The Virginia class, also known as the SSN-774 class, is a class of nuclear-powered cruise attack submarines in the United States Navy. These submarines are designed to be the primary attack submarine of the U.S. Navy in the 21st century. They are quieter, faster, and more capable than their Los Angeles-class predecessors, incorporating advanced stealth technology and a more modular design.

Virginia-class submarines are equipped with a variety of weapons, including Mark 48 torpedoes and Tomahawk cruise missiles, and can also deploy unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). They are designed for a wide range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), special operations forces (SOF) support, and land-attack missions. The submarines feature a unique "virtual mast" system, which uses high-definition cameras and electronic sensors instead of traditional periscopes, offering improved situational awareness.

The construction of the Virginia class is a joint venture between Huntington Ingalls Industries and General Dynamics Electric Boat. The lead ship, USS Virginia (SSN-774), was commissioned in 2004. As of 2023, numerous submarines of this class are in service, with many more planned or under construction, reflecting their importance to U.S. naval strategy. Their advanced capabilities and adaptability ensure their continued relevance in the evolving maritime environment.