Breaking New Waves: The USS New Jersey Ushers in a New Era of Gender Inclusivity at Sea

In an unprecedented move towards gender inclusivity, the U.S. Navy has welcomed the newest addition to its fleet, the Virginia-class submarine New Jersey SSN 796. Announced by U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, this state-of-the-art submarine is not just another addition to the Navy’s formidable arsenal but a beacon of progress, marking the first time a fast-attack submarine has been designed with crew gender integration from the outset.

Delivered by the esteemed Newport News Shipbuilding division, the New Jersey SSN 796 is the 11th Virginia-class submarine to join the ranks of the U.S. Navy’s underwater fighters. However, its significance extends far beyond its number, embodying a forward-thinking approach to inclusivity at sea. With its commissioning ceremony set to take place in New Jersey on September 14, the submarine is a testament to the state’s rich naval heritage and its commitment to fostering an environment where female sailors can thrive.

The 377-foot-long leviathan, commanded by Cmdr. Steve Hall, represents the pinnacle of naval engineering and a shift in cultural norms within the military. Falling under the Block IV version of the Virginia Class, the New Jersey SSN 796 is equipped to support the Navy’s critical missions with unprecedented efficiency and stealth. Yet, its role in advancing gender inclusivity may well be its most enduring legacy, paving the way for a more diverse and capable naval force.