USS Minnesota wraps inaugural deployment as the Navy’s first forward-deployed Virginia-class submarine

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Minnesota (SSN 783) returned to Naval Base Guam on July 29, concluding its first deployment since being designated the Navy’s first forward-deployed submarine of its class.

“Minnesota’s return marks a significant milestone for the Pacific Submarine Force and demonstrates the Navy’s ability to sustain and employ advanced Virginia-class capabilities in the Pacific,” said Capt. Christopher Carter, commander, Submarine Squadron 15. “Operating from Guam, this crew demonstrated the readiness, endurance and advanced capabilities the Virginia-class platform brings to the strategic outpost in the Western Pacific.”

During the deployment, the boat took part in the multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026 and pulled into Okinawa and Sasebo, Japan. The Okinawa stop highlighted the Navy’s ability to support forward undersea operations at multiple locations across the Pacific.

“This homecoming marks the successful completion of Minnesota’s first deployment from Guam,” said Cmdr. Jeffrey Cornielle, commanding officer of USS Minnesota. “The crew performed superbly while executing missions vital to the defense of the homeland and strengthening our alliances and partnerships. The experience they gained operating throughout the Western Pacific will shape Minnesota’s continued success for years to come. I am proud of every Sailor and deeply grateful to our families, whose strength and support made this deployment possible. From the North!”

Two officers and 20 enlisted Sailors earned their submarine warfare insignia during the deployment. The “dolphins” denote qualification to meet the undersea force’s highest standards and mastery of submarine systems, watchstanding and mission execution.

“The Sailors aboard Minnesota represented the Navy with pride and professionalism, no matter the task,” said Master Chief Electronics Technician (Navigation) Joshua Garrett, Minnesota’s chief of the boat. “Every time a challenge stood before them, they answered the call with discipline, character and an unwavering commitment to one another. Their readiness and effectiveness were evident throughout this deployment, and I could not be prouder of what this crew accomplished.”

The homecoming featured the Navy’s traditional first kiss and first hug, awarded to Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 2nd Class Jose Salazar and Yeoman (Submarines) 1st Class Jaccor Blakley, respectively.

Since arriving in Guam in November 2024, Minnesota has visited HMAS Stirling in Western Australia for at-sea operations in support of the Submarine Command Course and participated in Exercise Lungfish with the Royal Australian Navy. The submarine also visited Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory, supporting bilateral engagements—activities that underscore the Virginia class’s capacity to deliver combat power from a forward posture in the Pacific.

Commissioned on Sept. 7, 2013, in Norfolk, Virginia, Minnesota is the 10th Virginia-class submarine to enter service. Assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam, it is one of four fast-attack submarines based forward on the island. Known for speed, endurance, stealth and mobility, these submarines form the core of the Navy’s submarine force and sustain a persistent, forward-deployed presence across the Pacific.