Navy commissions first coed submarine

The United States Navy commissioned its first coed submarine, the USS New Jersey, on Saturday.

“New Jersey is representative of the future of the submarine force, and integrating this boat is a long time coming,” one female sailor s said in the promotion video posted to the social platform X .

The Navy’s newest Virginia-class submarine is the first built to integrate male and female sailors in the 100-year history of its submarines.

According to the Department of Defense, more than 60,000 women are serving in the U.S. Navy, which represents more than 20 percent of its total force. Female officers have served on submarines since 2011 . Now, enlisted women may serve on them.

“It’s a testament to the strength diversity brings to our Navy. Side-by-side men and women will operate this vessel United in purpose, skill and determination,” the narrator shared while videos throughout the new vessel reeled across the screen.

The Navy’s video touts the new inclusivity of the sub.

“This is really the first time the Navy is truly planning for the future regarding manning and taking advantage of the entire population, for finding those rare humans who can be and should be submariners,” another female sailor said in the video.

The Department of Defense first released the name of the vessel in May 2015 calling it a “nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine,” but Saturday’s post describes the fleet as more than a “powerhouse.”

“It isn’t just a powerhouse beneath the waves, it’s a symbol of progress breaking barriers as it protects our shores,” the narrator said, adding, “The future of Navy warfare starts here, and it’s more inclusive, stronger and more capable than ever.”

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