The US Navy’s 56th Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarine has arrived at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in New Hampshire for modernization.
The process will include maintenance and system upgrades for the USS Hampton (SSN 767), a vessel commissioned in the early 1990s that undertook primary roles across the Western Pacific in support of America’s national security interests.
Work for the upkeep will focus on technological solutions and related systems to retain the submarine’s operability against modern threats.
Simultaneously, the Hampton’s crew will receive training to manage a full range of missions upon their return to the fleet.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Commander Capt. Michael Oberdorf highlighted that the repairs for the Hampton will extend the lifespan of the ship and “directly” benefit the navy’s overall “warfighting readiness.”
“In alignment with the [Chief of Naval Operations – Navigation Plan 2024], this work is a clear reflection of our unwavering focus on lethality, readiness, and the integration of cutting-edge capabilities into the fleet,” Oberdorf said.
The USS Hampton
Since its induction, the Hampton has completed three major deployments to the Western Pacific region, with the most recent in the US 7th Fleet area of responsibility, which involved tasks associated with critical deterrence strategies and maritime security operations.
This covers anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, intelligence, mine countermeasures, special forces support, and strike operations. The submarine has also been used in multiple allied drills.
The vessel has a length of 110 meters (361 feet) and can carry more than a hundred personnel. It is equipped with a sixth-generation nuclear core reactor, twin turbines with 33,500 horsepower each, torpedo turbines, and vertical launch subsonic missiles.
“We’re excited to welcome the USS Hampton to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard,” Hampton Project Superintendent Tim Doyon explained. “Getting the Hampton back to the fleet to defend freedom is a top priority for our team.”
“We’re fully committed to putting in the hard work necessary to ensure the Hampton is ready to fight and serve wherever the Navy is needed.”
