The US Navy’s Virginia Class submarines have been awarded the highest possible, being ranked ‘operationally effective’ and ‘operationally suitable’ by the navy’s independent operational test agency Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force (COTF).

The submarines were awarded the rankings after a one-year initial operational test and evaluation (IOT&E) period conducted by COTF.

COTF completed the IOT&E in March 2009 and used the first five submarines of the class, USS Virginia (SSN 774), USS Texas (SSN 775), USS Hawaii (SSN 776), USS North Carolina (SSN 777) and USS New Hampshire (SSN 778).

The evaluation was based on the warfighting capabilities in operationally realistic and demanding scenarios across its seven mission areas those include anti-submarine, naval special warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, battle group support and mine warfare.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The evaluation also included operations with a navy carrier strike group in a major naval exercise simulated combat operations against surface ships and submarines.