PORTSMOUTH NAVAL SHIPYARD, Maine — The Virginia-class attack submarine USS Washington (SSN 787) was successfully undocked on schedule Oct. 27, marking a major milestone in its scheduled maintenance and modernization availability moving the Washington into its next phase of operational testing.

Completion of a submarine’s docking period is a critical first step in its return to the fleet and directly supports the Navy’s focus on combat-ready platforms, increasing operational availability and contributing to credible, sustained deterrence.

“Washington’s undocking is an achievement that represents a coordinated effort across the shipyard to return a renewed and combat-ready submarine back to the fleet,” said Capt. Jesse Nice, shipyard commander. “This team overcame every obstacle through our traditional shipyard grit combined with cutting-edge deckplate innovations led by our expert tradespeople. Today, we stand taller, tougher, and poised for the next phase to preserve the Navy’s mandate to build and maintain combat-ready forces.”

Washington has undergone extensive mechanical and electrical system upgrades, scheduled maintenance, and structural inspections utilizing deckplate innovation such as additive manufacturing. This comprehensive overhaul enhances the submarine’s capabilities, modernizes critical systems, and equips Sailors — the Navy’s decisive warfighting advantage — with an advanced, reliable platform ready to meet the Navy’s operational demands to deliver peace through strength.

“I’m proud of the incredible work done between our crew and the project team, whose exceptional collaboration and vigilance led us to this undocking on time,” said Cmdr. Keith Turnbull, commanding officer, USS Washington (SSN 787). “Through this monumental collective effort, we are laying the groundwork that will ultimately deliver the ‘Blackfish’ as a fully mission-capable, cutting-edge submarine operated by a highly skilled crew that will stand ready to answer our Nation’s call.”

As America’s leader for attack submarine maintenance, repair, and modernization, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard delivers the decisive edge required to master an era of evolving threats. It stands at the forefront of America’s commitment to peace through strength, delivering combat-ready submarines that are lethal, resilient, and prepared to win. The work performed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard directly contributes to national security, ensuring the U.S. Navy remains the most dominant maritime force anywhere in the world.

From Alana Demo. Oct. 29, 2026