The Commissioning of the USS New Jersey SSN 796: A New Era in Naval Excellence

On September 14, 2024, the U.S. Navy proudly commissioned the USS New Jersey (SSN 796), the 23rd state-of-the-art Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey [2] [5].  The USS New Jersey (SSN 796) is the third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name of the Garden State, following the distinguished battleship BB-62, which saw action during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War [4]. The new submarine continues this legacy of excellence, embodying the spirit and resilience of New Jersey.

Advanced Capabilities

The USS New Jersey is a marvel of modern engineering. At 377 feet long with a 34-foot beam, it can dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds exceeding 25 knots [4] [5]. The submarine is equipped with the latest technology, making it one of the most advanced and capable vessels in the U.S. Navy’s fleet.

The Commissioning Ceremony

The commissioning ceremony was a momentous occasion, attended by numerous dignitaries, including New Jersey Governor Philip Murphy, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, and Jennifer Boykin, president of Newport News Shipbuilding [4] [5]. The event was presided over by Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, Submarine Force commander, with Adm. William Houston, director of the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion program, serving as the senior Naval officer [4].

Cmdr. Steve Halle, the commanding officer of the USS New Jersey, delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the dedication and professionalism of his crew. He emphasized the historic nature of the event and the submarine’s advanced capabilities [5]. Susan DiMarco, the ship’s sponsor and wife of former Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, gave the traditional order to “man our ship and bring her to life,” to which the crew responded with a resounding “aye aye ma’am” before ceremonially boarding the submarine [5].

A New Era of Inclusivity

The USS New Jersey is not just a marvel of modern naval engineering; it also represents a progressive step towards inclusivity within the Navy.  Although women sailors have been serving in submarines since 2013, the New Jersey is the first submarine to be designed to accommodate a mixed-gender crew.  To ensure the comfort and privacy of all crew members, several modifications have been made to the USS New Jersey:

• Separate Facilities: The washrooms and bathing spaces have been redesigned to accommodate both male and female crew members, ensuring that everyone has access to private and secure facilities⁵.

·  Chief Petty Officer Lounge: The lounge area in the Chief Petty Officer quarters now includes a separate sleeping space with a door, enhancing privacy and comfort for senior crew members⁴.

·   Additional Doors: More doors have been added throughout the submarine to create private spaces, which is crucial for maintaining personal space in the confined environment of a submarine⁴.

The USS New Jersey is not just a testament to technological innovation but also a symbol of the enduring legacy and future promise of the U.S. Navy. As it embarks on its maiden voyages, the submarine carries with it the hopes and pride of the people of New Jersey and the entire nation.

Through our website (www.usmilitaryart.com), we offer profile drawings of all of the Virginia Class submarines.  Below is an example of just one of them.  If you have an interest in any of these great boats, this link will take you directly to the appropriate page on our site –

Virginia Class Nuclear Fast Attack Submarines – US Navy / Ships of the US Navy / Submarines / Nuclear Attack Submarines – A-T Products (usmilitaryart.com)