06-04-2025
USS Iowa submarine commissioned in Groton
GROTON, Conn (WTNH) — A new U.S. Navy submarine was commissioned on Saturday in Groton.
The USS Iowa is the 24th Virginia-Class Fast-Attack Submarine accepted into the fleet.
The submarine is 377 feet long, can dive around 800 feet and is manned by about 135 Navy personnel.
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Refueling won't be necessary thanks to the reactor core, which is expected to last the entire lifetime of the ship.
The commissioning came after a years-long process.
'She had her keel laid in 2019, she was christened in 2023 and this submarine we just got back from a little underway,' said Reactor Controlman Jason Patrick Stephens.
'I've been with the boat since November 2022 when it was in the building and not even in the water, ' said Lt. Audrui Femrite, Asst. Weapons Officer. 'Its been an amazing experience to see the boat float off with all the tests we've been through, sea trials, to see how this boat has developed especially the development of the crew as well.'
This will be the third U.S Navy vessel and first submarine named after the state of Iowa.
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