VIDEO: Newport News completes alpha trials of SSN 789

The Virginia-class submarine Indiana (SSN 789) transits the Chesapeake Bay during its first set of sea trials, referred to as alpha trials

MAY 28, 2018 — Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (NYSE:HII) Newport News Shipbuilding division has successfully completed the initial sea trials on the newest Virginia-class submarine, Indiana (SSN 789).

The initial round of sea trials, known as alpha trials, provides an opportunity to test all systems and components.

The alpha round includes submerging for the first time and high-speed maneuvers while on the surface and submerged.

“Sea trials are a significant milestone and the first major test of submarine’s capabilities at sea,” said Dave Bolcar, Newport News’ vice president of submarine construction. “We are pleased with how Indiana performed and look forward to continuing our testing program before we deliver the boat to the U.S. Navy later this year.”

Construction of Indiana began in 2012. The boat—the 16th Virginia-class submarine built as part of the teaming partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat—was christened in April 2017.