The USS New Jersey, the first gender-neutral submarine in the US fleet, is launched by the Navy.

Nearly 135 Navy personnel crew the USS New Jersey, a fast-attack Virginia-class submarine.

The USS New Jersey, the first gender-neutral submarine in the US fleet, is launched by the Navy.
The USS New Jersey, the first gender-neutral submarine in the US fleet, is launched by the Navy.

On Saturday, the U.S. Navy launched its first submarine that seamlessly integrates both male and female sailors.

During a ceremony at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey, the USS New Jersey, a fast-attack Virginia-class submarine, was commissioned.

"Cmdr. Steve Halle, New Jersey's commanding officer, expressed his amazement and humility during a ceremony, addressing the submarine's crew about the complexity of their platform and their relentless pursuit of excellence."

"Our crew integration and diversity have contributed to our exceptional professionalism, which has enabled us to surpass expectations and overcome every challenge we have faced."

USS New Jersey submarine
The submarine is the third U.S. Navy ship named after the state of New Jersey, following the legendary battleship BB-62 that saw action during WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. (Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro / Facebook)

The USS New Jersey, the first of its kind, is a warship with a crew of approximately 135 Navy personnel, and it is fully gender integrated.

USS New Jersey submarine
The USS New Jersey has a crew of nearly 135 male and female sailors. (Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro / Facebook)

In 2010, when the Navy ended its ban on women in submarines, concerns about cramped living quarters and privacy led the Navy to modify subs and designate separate restrooms.

USS New Jersey submarine
The USS New Jersey was commissioned during a ceremony held Saturday at Naval Weapons Station Earle in Middletown, New Jersey. (U.S. Navy Photo By Bill Addison)

From the start, the USS New Jersey was built with gender-neutral accommodations, including more privacy in bathrooms and sleeping areas, as stated by Vice Admiral Robert Gaucher, commander of Submarine Forces Atlantic, to NorthJersey.com. Additionally, access to top bunks and overhead valves was designed with the height, reach, and strength of women in mind.

The submarine, powered by nuclear energy, was given the nickname "Jersey Girl" and its interior was adorned with posters and memorabilia representing the state, including a guitar signed by Jon Bon Jovi, according to the news outlet.

USS New Jersey submarine
The nuclear-powered sub is 377 feet long with a 34-foot beam. It can dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots.  (U.S. Navy Photo By Bill Addison)

The sub is over 377 feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and can dive deeper than 800 feet while traveling at speeds over 25 knots.

The third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name of the state of New Jersey is the successor to the legendary battleship BB-62, which fought in WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

by Stephen Sorace

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