The US Navy has decided that 19 future Virginia-class submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module (VPM) will be reclassified as guided-missile submarines (SSGNs), reflecting their increased weapons capacity and expanded precision-strike role.
The reclassification applies to future Block V and Block VI Virginia-class submarines fitted with the VPM, a hull extension designed to significantly increase weapons capacity and provide greater payload flexibility.
The US Navy said the designation change recognizes the platforms’ enhanced role in delivering high-volume, long-range precision strike capabilities as part of future Distributed Maritime Operations.
While carrying the new SSGN designation, they will remain an integral part of the storied Virginia class program.
"Reclassifying Virginia Payload Module-equipped submarines as SSGNs accurately reflects the extraordinary strike capacity, operational flexibility, and global reach these platforms bring to the Fleet," said the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Daryl Caudle.
"This transition comes at an important moment as USS Georgia, one of the Navy's four Ohio-class guided-missile submarines, begins the inactivation process after more than four decades of exceptional service."
The first VPM platform (SSGN 803) is estimated to deliver in FY 2029, with deliveries scheduled through FY 2038. Once operational, these highly survivable platforms will be dynamically employed across crucial global theaters to provide persistent forward presence, according to the navy.
"The Submarine Force is defined by our ability to operate undetected and strike without warning,” said Vice Adm. Rick Seif, Commander, Submarine Forces.
“By integrating high-volume precision strike capabilities into these stealth platforms, these SSGNs serve as the ultimate enabler for Distributed Maritime Operations, giving our warfighters the overwhelming, flexible firepower required to win decisively in any theater."
Virginia-class submarines are capable of conducting a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, precision strike, intelligence collection, irregular warfare, and mine warfare.