New Virginia sub named

New Virginia-class attack submarine(SSN-795), will bear the name USS Hyman G. Rickover. Submarine is named in honor of U.S. Navy Admiral Hyman G. Rickover, the man responsible for developing USS Nautilus (SSN 571), the world's first operational nuclear-powered submarine.

USS Hyman G. Rickover will be block IV submarine. This means that the sub will be cheaper than the previous block III units. The cost for Block IV is about $1.78 billion, compared to $2.6 billion for the first Block III boat. What is more block IV boats will have improvements to allow the boats to spend less time in the yard — from four major maintenance periods to three. This will allow an extra deployment out of the design.

Virginia-class submarines are taking over working mule role from Los Angeles-class subs. Thanks to it enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities, and special warfare enhancements Virginias are capable of attacking targets with Tomahawk cruise missiles, conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. They are also able to conduct anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare; mine delivery and minefield mapping as well as delivering special-forces and providing support.

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