First-Ever Forward-Deployed Virginia-Class Submarine Makes Historic Arrival in Guam

The USS Minnesota has made history as the first Virginia-class fast-attack submarine to be forward deployed to Guam. This development signifies the U.S. Navy’s commitment to bolstering its presence and operational capabilities in the Pacific region.

Cmdr. Isaac Pelt, who leads the USS Minnesota, expressed the crew’s enthusiasm upon arrival. “The entire crew is thrilled to be in Guam,” he stated. The submarine’s crew, composed of skilled sailors, is eager to engage with the local community while maintaining readiness and contributing to strategic objectives in the Pacific.

Commissioned in 2013 in Norfolk, Virginia, USS Minnesota is the 10th Virginia-class submarine to enter service. This class is set to succeed the retiring Los Angeles-class submarines. With a crew of around 140, the Minnesota is designed for a range of missions, including engaging submarines and surface ships, executing strike warfare, and conducting intelligence operations.

The U.S. Navy faces an increasingly complex security landscape in the Indo-Pacific. To address this, it has strategically stationed advanced units like the Minnesota forward. This posture enhances operational flexibility, enabling a swift response to potential threats and supporting peace and stability in the region.

Capt. Neil Steinhagen, commander of Submarine Squadron 15, warmly welcomed the Minnesota’s crew and families. He highlighted Guam’s strategic significance in the Western Pacific and underscored the submarine’s role in enhancing regional stability. “Minnesota embodies the strength and resolve necessary to reinforce our deterrence efforts,” he said, anticipating significant achievements from the submarine during its deployment.

Joining four Los Angeles-class submarines already stationed in the Pacific, Minnesota’s presence reinforces the U.S. submarine forces’ mission to support a free and open Indo-Pacific. The forward deployment enhances operational readiness and affirms the U.S. commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.