NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Dec. 13 (UPI) -- The Virginia-class submarine North Carolina has sailed to carry out its initial sea trials, or Alpha trials.
The North Carolina -- SSN 777 -- sailed from Northrop Grumman Newport News on Wednesday, Northrop Grumman said in a statement. The nuclear-powered submarine is the fourth submarine of the Virginia class, the company said.
"Sea trials provide an opportunity to test all systems, components and compartments and include submerging for the first time, high-speed runs while on the surface and submerged, and a demonstration of the submarine's other capabilities," Northrop Grumman said.
Senior U.S. Navy officers and Northrop Grumman executives who are taking part in the North Carolina's Alpha trials "include Admiral Kirkland Donald, director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program; Mike Petters, president, Northrop Grumman Newport News; Rear Admiral William Hilarides, Program Executive Officer, Submarines, and other Navy and industry officials," Northrop Grumman said.
Northrop Grumman describes itself as "a $30 billion global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide."
