USS Massachusetts Cleared for Fleet Duty After Navy Waives Post-Shakedown Availability

17 August 2026
Edited By: Haley McQueen

The Navy has completed shakedown trials on the USS Massachusetts (SSN 798) and the submarine is ready for Fleet tasking. As a result of the superb material condition and combat readiness, the Navy waived the post-shakedown availability of USS Massachusetts (SSN 798). This decision was made possible by the operational quality of the ship during trials and the urgency to deliver warfighting capability to the Fleet.

The USS Constitution sails past the Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine USS Massachusetts (SSN 798) during Massachusetts’ commissioning in Boston, on March 28th, 2026. Massachusetts is the newest fast-attack submarine and the fifth US Navy vessel to bear the name. (Image credit: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lucas J. Hastings, US Navy)

“USS Massachusetts is ready to fight, and that is exactly where we need her, in the hands of our Sailors and available to the Fleet,” said Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle. “Waiving this availability reflects the exceptional condition of the ship and our determination to deliver combat-ready capability faster. It also allows our shipbuilding workforce to focus its talent and capacity where we need it most, building the next generation of submarines our nation requires.”

“Waiving a submarine’s post-shakedown availability is an example of driving efficiency, innovation and speed in shipbuilding,” said Vice Adm. Rob Gaucher, Director, Submarine Programs. “While it is a calculated risk, we do it without ever compromising the safety of our sailors or the quality of our submarines. By getting this boat into the fight, we can continue to maintain an absolute advantage in the undersea domain.”

Newport News Shipbuilding delivered the ship to the Navy on November 21, 2025, after the successful completion of sea trials. The ship subsequently completed extensive testing and evaluation during months of shakedown operations. During trials and testing, USS Massachusetts met and exceeded rigorous construction and safety standards required to enter service. The submarine was commissioned in March 2026 in Boston Harbor.

“Massachusetts brings unmatched stealth and lethality to the undersea battle force,” said Vice Adm. Rick Seif, Commander, Submarine Forces. “This decision will immediately add combat readiness and capacity to ensure our nation’s ability to dominate and maintain undersea superiority.”

USS Massachusetts is the seventh Block IV Virginia-class submarine, built under a teaming agreement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII-Newport News Shipbuilding. It brings significant warfighting capability, underscoring the nation’s undersea advantage. Virginia-class fast attack submarines have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities, and special warfare enhancements that enable them to meet the Navy’s multi-mission requirements.