The USS Delaware (SSN-791) is a Virginia-class attack submarine designed for the United States Navy, distinguished as the eighth and final vessel of the Block III submarines. Constructed by Huntington Ingalls Industries in partnership with General Dynamics' Electric Boat division in Newport News, Virginia, her construction commenced in September 2013 following the contract award on December 22, 2008. The submarine features a revised bow design characteristic of the Block III class, incorporating technology derived from Ohio-class SSGNs. Measuring 377 feet (115 meters) in length and 33 feet (10 meters) in width, USS Delaware has a maximum draft of 32 feet (9.8 meters). She displaces approximately 7,800 tonnes (around 8,600 short tons), reflecting her substantial size and submarine capabilities. Propelled by nuclear power, she is equipped with a single semi-pump jet style propulsor, which provides high-speed underwater mobility and efficiency. Her crew complements consist of 15 officers and 117 enlisted personnel, enabling her to perform a variety of missions including tactical strike, intelligence gathering, and special operations. The vessel was christened on October 20, 2018, and was officially commissioned on April 2, 2022, at the Port of Wilmington, Delaware. Notably, her commissioning was conducted administratively due to public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a historic milestone as the first U.S. Navy ship to be commissioned while submerged underwater. This innovative commissioning process underscores her significance within the Navy's modern fleet. Overall, USS Delaware exemplifies advanced submarine technology and strategic naval capability, with her design and commissioning marking important developments in U.S. undersea warfare. Her construction and service history highlight her role as a vital asset in maintaining national security and maritime dominance.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.