U.S. Navy’s 1st Forward Deployed Fast-Attack Submarine Arrives In Guam

The USS Minnesota (SSN 783), a Virginia-class fast-attack U.S. Navy submarine, arrived at its new homeport at Naval Base Guam on November 26.

Cmdr. Isaac Pelt, the commanding officer of the USS Minnesota, shared that the crew is excited to be stationed in Guam, expressing confidence in their readiness to contribute to regional security.

He discussed the exceptional capabilities of the sailors aboard and their eagerness to engage with the local community while maintaining operational readiness for future missions.

Commissioned in 2013, the USS Minnesota is the 10th Virginia-class submarine, set to replace the older Los Angeles-class vessels as they are retired.

With a crew of about 140, the submarine is designed to handle a variety of critical missions, including anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, strike operations, and intelligence-gathering.

Capt. Neil Steinhagen, commander of Submarine Squadron 15, welcomed the USS Minnesota to its new station, acknowledging the vital role Guam plays in U.S. defense strategy.

He says the submarine’s arrival will greatly enhance operational capabilities in the Pacific, further reinforcing the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed presence in the region.

USS Minnesota will join the four Los Angeles-class submarines based in Guam. Together, these submarines represent a powerful force in maintaining stability and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Reference: US Navy