USS New Jersey Returns to Navy After Maintenance at Newport News Shipbuilding

The Virginia-class submarine underwent post-delivery upgrades and testing at the shipyard.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 6:35pm

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a sleek, polished submarine propeller blade resting on a clean, monochromatic seamless background, conceptually representing the technological advancements and engineering excellence behind modern naval submarines.The redelivery of the USS New Jersey submarine to the U.S. Navy showcases the critical role of shipyards in maintaining America's undersea maritime supremacy.Newport News Today

HII's Newport News Shipbuilding has completed post-shakedown work on the USS New Jersey, a Virginia-class fast attack submarine, and returned the vessel to the U.S. Navy. The submarine underwent months of post-delivery maintenance, including system upgrades, testing, and general adjustments following its initial time at sea.

Why it matters

Maintaining and upgrading the Navy's submarine fleet is crucial for ensuring America's undersea maritime supremacy. The USS New Jersey's return to service after this maintenance period at Newport News Shipbuilding strengthens the Navy's overall submarine capabilities.

The details

The post-shakedown availability at Newport News Shipbuilding included combat systems and electronics improvements, along with general maintenance on the USS New Jersey. This standard maintenance period is a routine part of bringing a new submarine into full operational readiness after its initial delivery.

  • The USS New Jersey (SSN 796) underwent months of post-delivery work at Newport News Shipbuilding.
  • The submarine was redelivered to the U.S. Navy on April 3, 2026.

The players

HII's Newport News Shipbuilding

The shipyard that completed the post-shakedown maintenance work on the USS New Jersey.

USS New Jersey (SSN 796)

A Virginia-class fast attack submarine that has been returned to the U.S. Navy after undergoing post-delivery upgrades and testing.

U.S. Navy

The recipient of the USS New Jersey submarine after the maintenance work was completed.

Jason Ward

The vice president of new construction submarine programs at Newport News Shipbuilding.

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What they’re saying

“Maintaining our nation's undersea maritime supremacy is strengthened by the redelivery of USS New Jersey.”

— Jason Ward, Vice President of New Construction Submarine Programs, Newport News Shipbuilding

The takeaway

The successful completion of maintenance and upgrades on the USS New Jersey at Newport News Shipbuilding is an important milestone in ensuring the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet remains capable and ready to defend America's maritime interests.