The USS South Dakota (SSN-790) fast attack submarine has returned (Feb. 20, 2026) to its homeport in Groton, Connecticut, following a six month deployment supporting national security interests and maritime security operations.
The South Dakota has a crew of more than 130 personnel, is more than 377 feet long and can displace nearly 7,900 tons. It was the 17th Virginia-class submarine built when it was commissioned Feb. 2, 2019. It’s the third U.S. Navy ship named for the state of South Dakota. It followed the battleship South Dakota (BB 57) which earned 13 battle stars in World War II and the first ship to bear the name USS South Dakota, which was a Pennsylvania-class armored cruiser that served during World War I.
See photos of the USS South Dakota submarine’s crew returning home by going to the Submarine Readiness Squadron 32’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/grotonsubs.
Fast-attack submarines are multi-mission platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security, and deterrence. They are designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare. Fast-attack submarines project power ashore with special operations forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the prevention or response to regional crises.
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contributions to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. More information is available on the U.S. Navy website, https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/.
Submarine Readiness Squadron 32 Public Affairs contributed to this story.
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