U.S Navy Commissions USS New Jersey, First Ever Submarine For A Mixed Gender Crew

In a historic development, the U.S. Navy commissioned its first coed submarine, marking the beginning of inclusivity in the oceans.

The Navy on X stated that the USS New Jersey submarine (SSN 796) is ready to enter service.

The Virginia-class sub is the first fully integrated sub constructed for male and female sailors in the 100-year history of submarines, per the video posted by the US Navy.

A woman in the voiceover said that it was an honour to be a part of this new narrative, which is a testament to the strength that diversity brings to the force.

For the first time, women and Men will operate the submarine side by side, united in their determination, skills, and purpose.

The video’s voiceover said that this sub is a symbol of progress and represents the future of the submarine force.

USS New Jersey (SSN 796) is now commissioned and ready for service! The Navy’s latest Virginia-class submarine joins the fleet. Watch the video to learn more about the Navy’s newest sub. #USSNewJersey #USNavy #Submarine #NavalPower pic.twitter.com/PEGlDaWRMw

— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) September 14, 2024

Video Credits: U.S. Navy/X

According to media reports, the submarine is designed differently and has more doors, washrooms, and separate sleeping and bathing spaces for the male and female crew.

It has lower valves and steps in front of triple-high bunk beds and stacked laundry machines.

These changes were made to accommodate the women who would join the Navy. In the past few years, the Navy has seen a growing number of female officers and enlisted sailors.

There are currently about 60,000 enlisted women in the Navy, and as of August, 730 were assigned to operational submarines.

The Sub was commissioned in a morning event held on Saturday at the Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown Township, New Jersey, per the Department of Defense.

It is the third naval ship named for the state. The first was a 1906 battleship that was part of the Great White Fleet during the First World War. The second was commissioned in 1943 and used in the Second World War, including the conflicts in Vietnam and Korea.

The name of the nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine was announced in 2015 and delivered on April 25.

References: Fox News, NBC News

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