Latest Virginia-class sub Colorado delivered to US Navy

General Dynamics Electric Boat has delivered the nuclear-powered attack submarine Colorado (SSN 788) to the US Navy.

Colorado is the 15th ship of the Virginia class. She is also the fifth of the eight-ship group of Virginia-class submarines known as Block III. These ships represent a navy and industry commitment to reduce costs while increasing capabilities through an initiative comprising a multi-year procurement strategy, improvements in construction practices and the Design for Affordability (DFA) program.

Virginia-class submarines displace 7,800 tonnes, with a hull length of 115 metres and a diameter of 10 metres. They are capable of speeds in excess of 25 knots and can dive to a depth greater than 250 metres, while carrying Mark 48 advanced capability torpedoes and Tomahawk cruise missiles.