The US Navy is inducting a Virginia-class submarine with a special configuration for deep-sea operations, a spokesperson confirmed to TWZ. The vessel will be a Block V version and will be built without the Virginia Payload Module.
The module’s location will be used for specialized Subsea and Seabed Warfare systems. The modifications remain classified, while the US Navy is keeping the identity of the hull that will receive the new configuration under wraps.
The mission involves intelligence gathering, special operations support, and action around undersea infrastructure. The new Virginia is intended to fill roles currently associated with the specially modified USS Jimmy Carter. The Virginia class is already a primary strike carrier and is also being considered as a platform for the SLCM-N missile.
