The US Navy has just commissioned a massive 7,800-ton nuclear-powered attack submarine in a traditional ceremony that marked the culmination of a multi-year construction process.

Named USS Idaho (SSN 799), the vessel officially entered service during a formal event that took place at the Naval Submarine Base New London, in the town of Groton, Connecticut, on Saturday, April 25.

USS Idaho is the 26th Virginia-class submarine and the eighth built to the more advanced Block IV configuration. It is the northwestern state’s latest addition to its growing fleet of advanced undersea assets. The ship was christened on March 16, 2024, at the Electric Boat shipyard in Groton.

“We are a maritime nation, bordering on both the Atlantic and the Pacific,” Hung Cao, a politician and acting secretary of the US Navy, revealed, emphasizing the importance of the new submarine. “Our commerce depends on safe and secure sea lanes of communication.”

New submarine unveiled

Honoring the Gem State, the vessel carries forward a legacy that dates back more than a century. It is the fifth Navy vessel to bear the name, following earlier ships including its most recent predecessor, USS Idaho (BB-42).

The USS Idaho (BB-42) was a New Mexico-class battleship commissioned in 1919, which saw extensive action during World War II. It earned seven battle stars for its service during the war, including action at Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

During the event, US officials emphasized the strategic importance of maintaining a strong undersea presence. Senator James Risch of Idaho delivered the principal address as the ceremony’s keynote speaker.

Cao said President Trump’s directive to the military is to achieve peace through strength. “The USS Idaho joins the fleet ready to answer the call to action, in any ocean, at any time,” he continued.

Cmdr. Chad J. Guillerault, Idaho’s commanding officer, said the Idaho connection is a legacy from the past that is now being renewed. “I am incredibly proud to be the commissioning captain of a vessel so steeped in tradition, he reported. “And most importantly, honored to be the captain of a crew so mighty that they have outshone all those before them.”

Virginia-class fleet expands

Measuring 377 feet (115 meters) in length with a beam of 34 feet (10.4 meters), the submarine displaces approximately 7,800 tons. It is powered by a nuclear reactor plant designed to last the entire service life of the vessel, without the need for refueling. It is expected to cut lifecycle costs and increase operational availability.

According to the US Navy, this is an advantage that cuts maintenance downtime while enabling long-duration deployments. Its capabilities include surveillance, intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and special operations support, alongside traditional anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare roles.

The vessel also has advanced stealth features that allow it to operate undetected. Its onboard systems enable real-time data collection, and situational awareness in complex underwater environments.

“This moment is for you, Cmdr. Guillerault, and your crew,” Teresa Stackley, USS Idaho’s sponsor, said in a press release. “Please note that when you sail, my heart sails with you.”

USS Idaho was built via a teaming agreement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding, two of the nation’s primary submarine manufacturers. “The commissioning of the USS Idaho reinforces the Navy’s commitment to maritime superiority and national security,” the US Navy said.