US continues to review AUKUS submarine deal as HII ticks off new Virginia-class sea trials
The Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts is the 12th in the class to be delivered by NNS. (Photo: Lexi Whitehead/HII)
The initial sea trials for Virginia-class SSN 798 conducted by Newport News Shipbuilding division and the US Navy marked an “important step”, but the ongoing AUKUS review casts a shadow over what the progress means for the partner nations.
On the same day that shipbuilder HII announced the successful completion of its initial sea trials for the 25th Virginia-class submarine – named Massachusetts (SSN 798) – John Noh, deputy assistant secretary for East Asia and Pentagon nominee, revealed that the US’s review of its involvement in the AUKUS project was still ongoing.
The sea tests took place over several days with a team from both Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) – a division of HII – and the US Navy, with a focus on proving the vessel’s capabilities. It was the first time the submarine had been submerged and it
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![From REPMUS to procurement: the four capabilities NATO navies want from USVs]()
From REPMUS to procurement: the four capabilities NATO navies want from USVs
Syos Aerospace will channel its first outside capital into research, production and overseas reach as navies seek jam-resistant, integrated uncrewed fleets.
-
![Patria NEMO Navy: Unlocking unmatched versatility and protection for modern naval forces]()
Patria NEMO Navy: Unlocking unmatched versatility and protection for modern naval forces
The Patria NEMO Navy mortar system marks a revolutionary advance in maritime defence technology, offering unparalleled benefits to customers who demand performance, adaptability and safety in their naval operations.
-
![Canada targets 2027 frigate trials for CU179 Peregrine uncrewed helicopter]()
Canada targets 2027 frigate trials for CU179 Peregrine uncrewed helicopter
The Royal Canadian Navy’s CU179 Peregrine will undergo Halifax-class frigate trials in 2027 ahead of initial operational capability in 2028, while River-class destroyer integration arrangements remain undefined.
-
![AUKUS heavyweight torpedo test raises questions over future armed UUV requirements]()
AUKUS heavyweight torpedo test raises questions over future armed UUV requirements
A heavyweight torpedo firing from the Royal Navy’s uncrewed submarine XV Excalibur suggests a shift beyond surveillance, with allied navies eyeing strike roles for large autonomous undersea vessels.
-
![Industrial teams prepare roadmap for Indonesia aircraft carrier transformation]()
Industrial teams prepare roadmap for Indonesia aircraft carrier transformation
Fincantieri and PT PAL have agreed on a framework to modernise the former Giuseppe Garibaldi, with drones, communications and broader Italian–Indonesian industrial ties involved.
