INFOGRAPHICS #2: Virginia class nuclear powered fast attack submarines of US Navy

USS Virginia (SSN-774)

Virginia class submarines are the latest nuclear attack submarines operated by US Navy. They were conceived as a less expensive alternative to the Seawolf class attack submarines and they are planned to replace the older of the Los Angeles-class submarines. Virginia-class submarines will be acquired through 2043, and are expected to remain in service past 2060. Based on recent updates to the designs, some of the Virginia-class submarines are expected to still be in service in 2070. Below a great work by Stephen Rountree for the U.S. Navy, General Dynamics Electric Boat Corporation and Newport News Shipbuilding. At the left, a photo of the lead ship of the class, USS Virginia (SSN-774), while she returns to the General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard following the successful completion of its first voyage in open seas called "alpha" sea trials, in July, 2004.

Click to enlarge and save the image to view the details: Virginia class SSN. In high resolution here.