New sub completes Alpha Trials

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GROTON, Conn., April 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy's newest attack submarine has returned to General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard following sea trials.

During the Alpha Trials, the USS Mississippi (SSN-782), submerged for the first time and conducted high-speed runs on and under the surface to demonstrate its propulsion system.

Key personnel involved in the sea trials included Adm. Kirkland Donald, director -- Naval Nuclear Propulsion; Rear Adm. David Johnson, program executive officer -- Submarines; Rear Adm. Richard Breckenridge, commander -- Submarine Group Two; and Rear Adm. (Select) Michael E. Jabaley, program manager -- Virginia class Submarine Program, as well as company officials.

The Mississippi is the ninth Virginia class vessel to be built.

Electric Boat and its major subcontractor, Newport News Shipbuilding, are contracted to build the first 18 of the submarines. The Navy expects to eventually acquire 30 of the vessels.

Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics.