Editing Virginia-class submarine (section)

== Innovations ==
[[File:USS North Carolina (SSN-777) commissioning 2.jpg|thumb|{{USS|North Carolina|SSN-777|6}}, the last Block I boat, at her commissioning ceremony. Her advanced masts are visible in this image.]]
The ''Virginia'' class incorporates several innovations not found in previous US submarine classes.<ref name="baker1005">{{cite book |title=Combat Fleets of the World, 1998–1999 |last= Baker|first=A. D. III|publisher=Naval Institute Press |year=1998 |location=USA|isbn= 978-1-55750-111-0|page=1005}}</ref>

=== Technology barriers ===
Because of the low rate of ''Virginia'' production, the Navy entered into a program with [[DARPA]] to overcome technology barriers to lower the cost of attack submarines so that more could be built, to maintain the size of the fleet.<ref>{{cite report|last= O'Rourke |first= Ronald|url= https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32914.pdf|title=Navy Ship Acquisition: Options for Lower-Cost Ship Designs — Issues for Congress |series=RL32914|publisher=Congressional Research Service|date=23 June 2005|access-date=23 November 2012|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121025051947/http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL32914.pdf|archive-date=25 October 2012|url-status= live}}</ref>

These include:<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/STO/Programs/Tango_Bravo.aspx|title=Tango Bravo|work=Strategic Technology Office|publisher=[[DARPA]]|access-date=17 October 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121014043812/http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/STO/Programs/Tango_Bravo.aspx|archive-date=14 October 2012}}</ref>
* Propulsion concepts not constrained by a centerline shaft.
* Externally stowed and launched weapons (especially torpedoes).
* Conformal alternatives to the existing spherical sonar array.
* Technologies that eliminate or substantially simplify existing submarine hull, mechanical, and electrical systems.
* Automation to reduce crew workload for standard tasks

=== Unified Modular Masts ===
''Virginia''-class subs are the first class where all [[Radio masts and towers|masts]] share common design – the Universal Modular Mast (UMM) – designed by [[L3 Technologies|L3]] KEO<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/products/submarine.htm#o |title=Submarine Imaging |publisher= L-3com |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150420040436/http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/products/submarine.htm#o |archive-date=20 April 2015 |url-status= dead}}</ref> (previously Kollmorgen).<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://www.l-3com.com/media-center/press-releases.html?pr_id=1658097 |title=L-3 Completes Acquisition of Kollmorgen Electro-Optical |number= 212–697–1111 |publisher=L-3com |date=7 February 2012 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402111442/http://www.l-3com.com/media-center/press-releases.html?pr_id=1658097 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |publisher=SPIE Europe |url=http://optics.org/news/3/2/7 |title=L-3 completes $210M Kollmorgen acquisition |work=Optics.org |date=8 February 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150904031441/http://optics.org/news/3/2/7 |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Shared components have been maximized and some design choices are also shared between different masts. The first UMM was installed on {{USS |Memphis|SSN-691|6}}, a ''Los Angeles''-class submarine.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/pdfs/AD-16%20PMP%20datasht.pdf |title= Photonics Mast Program |publisher=L-3 KEO |date=20 March 2008 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121223014422/http://www2.l-3com.com/keo/pdfs/AD-16%20PMP%20datasht.pdf |archive-date=23 December 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The UMM is an integrated system for housing, erecting, and supporting submarine mast-mounted antennas and sensors.<ref>{{cite web |date=30 July 1998 |title=U.S. Navy: Vision… Presence… Power |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/vision/vis98/vis-p10.html |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150420230121/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/vision/vis98/vis-p10.html |archive-date=20 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy}}</ref> The UMMs are the following:
* Snorkel mast<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Virginia class Attack Submarine – SSN |url= https://www.seaforces.org/usnships/ssn/Virginia-class.htm |access-date=9 November 2011 |website= Sea forces}}</ref>
* Two photonic masts<ref name=":0" />
* Two communication masts<ref name=":0" />
* One or two high-data-rate satellite communication (SATCOM) masts,<ref>{{cite speech |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/congress/fages062000.html |title=RADM Fages' 2000 Testimony |publisher=Chief of Naval Operations, Submarine Warfare Division |date=27 June 2000 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091222091814/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/congress/fages062000.html |archive-date=22 December 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref> built by Raytheon,<ref name= "raytheon1">{{cite press release |url= http://investor.raytheon.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=84193&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=597551 |title=Raytheon to Produce SATCOM System for New Virginia Class Submarine; Contract Valued at $29.4 Million |publisher=Raytheon |date=28 July 2000 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016051956/http://investor.raytheon.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=84193&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=597551 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> enabling communication at [[Super High Frequency|super high frequency]] (for downlink) and [[Extremely High Frequency|extremely high frequency]] (for uplink) range<ref name=":0" /><ref name="raytheon1" /><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.afspc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7758 |title=Factsheets : Advanced Extremely High Frequency System |publisher=Air Force Space Command |date=25 March 2015 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150919125701/http://www.afspc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7758 |archive-date=19 September 2015}}</ref>
* Radar mast (carrying AN/BPS-16 surface search and navigation radar)<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite web |date=6 December 2013 |title = AN/BPS-15/16 Radar |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=2100&tid=309&ct=2 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150327044420/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=2100&tid=309&ct=2 |archive-date=27 March 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |website=Fact File |publisher=US Navy}}</ref>
* Electronic warfare mast (AN/BLQ-10 Electronic Support Measures) used to detect, analyze, and identify both radar and communication signals from ships, aircraft, submarines, and land-based transmitters<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/ship_sensors_weapons.html |title=Ships, Sensors, and Weapons |publisher=US Navy |date=Spring 2001 |volume=3 |issue=3 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150605233336/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/ship_sensors_weapons.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite conference |url = https://www.myaoc.org/eweb/images/aoc_library/Events/2002/102802_CONV/02CONV_Proceedings/Day3/Track4/Phelps.pdf |title=AN/BLQ-10(V): Submarine Electronic Warfare Support for the 21st Century |last = Phelps |first=William |conference=39th Annual AOC International Symposium and Convention |location=Nashville, [[Tennessee | TN]] |publisher= Association of Old Crows |date=29 October 2002 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402181142/https://www.myaoc.org/eweb/images/aoc_library/Events/2002/102802_CONV/02CONV_Proceedings/Day3/Track4/Phelps.pdf |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status= dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013anblq10.pdf |title=AN/BLQ-10 Submarine Electronic Warfare Support System |publisher= OSD |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402115407/http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013anblq10.pdf |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Photonics masts===
[[File:Manette de Xbox360, USS Colorado.jpg|thumb|A sailor using an [[Xbox 360 controller]] to control the photonic masts of [[USS Colorado (SSN-788)|USS ''Colorado'']] in 2018. It is the first submarine to use this Xbox controller.]]

The ''Virginia'' class is the first to utilize photonic sensors instead of a traditional [[periscope]]. The class is equipped with high-[[image resolution|resolution]] cameras, along with light-intensification and [[thermographic camera|infrared sensors]], an infrared [[laser rangefinder]], and an integrated [[Electronic Support Measures]] (ESM) array. Two redundant sets of these sensors are mounted on two [[AN/BVS-1]] [[photonics mast]]s<ref name= "baker1005" /> located outside the [[pressure hull]]. Signals from the masts' sensors are transmitted through [[optical fiber]] data lines through [[signal processor]]s to the control center.<ref>{{cite web |first=Claudio |last=Paschoa |url = http://www.marinetechnologynews.com/blogs/umm-photonics-mast-for-virginia-class-attack-submarines-700510 |title=UMM Photonics Mast for ''Virginia''-class Attack | work =Marine technology news |date= 11 September 2014 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402162107/http://www.marinetechnologynews.com/blogs/umm-photonics-mast-for-virginia-class-attack-submarines-700510 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Visual feeds from the masts are displayed on [[liquid-crystal display]] interfaces in the command center.<ref name= "USW W99">{{cite web |last1=Graves |first1=Barbara |last2= Whitman |first2=Edward |date=Winter 1999 |title=''Virginia''-class: America's Next Submarine |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_02/virginia_class.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150831001014/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_02/virginia_class.htm |archive-date=31 August 2015 |access-date= 26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy |volume=1 |number=2}}</ref>

The design of earlier optical periscopes required them to penetrate the pressure hull, reducing the structural integrity of the pressure hull as well as increasing the risk of flooding, and also required the submarine's control room to be located directly below the sail/fin.<ref>{{cite web |last=Holian |first=Thomas |date=Fall 2004 |title=Eyes from the Deep: A History of U.S. Navy Submarine Periscopes |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_24/eyes.htm |publisher=US Navy |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150904031441/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_24/eyes.htm |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Implementation of photonics masts (which do not penetrate the pressure hull) enabled the submarine control room to be relocated to a position inside the pressure hull which is not necessarily directly below the sail.<ref name=":0" />

The current photonics masts have a visual appearance so different from ordinary periscopes that when the submarine is detected, it can be distinctly identified as a ''Virginia''-class vessel. As a result, current photonic masts will be replaced with Low-Profile Photonics Masts (LPPM) which resemble traditional submarine periscopes more closely.<ref name=":0" />

In the future, a non-rotational Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics Mast may be fitted, enabling the submarine to obtain a simultaneous 360° view of the sea surface.<ref>{{cite web |date= October 2012 |title=Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics Mast |url= http://www.onr.navy.mil/~/media/Files/Fact-Sheets/31/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics.ashx |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402125034/http://www.onr.navy.mil/~/media/Files/Fact-Sheets/31/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics.ashx |archive-date=2 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Office of Naval Research}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Affordable Modular Panoramic Photonics |url= http://www.onr.navy.mil/en/Media-Center/Fact-Sheets/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics-Mast.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402144708/http://www.onr.navy.mil/en/Media-Center/Fact-Sheets/Affordable-Modular-Panoramic-Photonics-Mast.aspx |archive-date=2 April 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Office of Naval Research}}</ref>

=== Propulsor ===
In contrast to a traditional bladed propeller, the ''Virginia'' class uses pump-jet [[propulsor]]s by [[BAE Systems]],<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_049643/bae-systems-delivers-first-us-navy-submarine-propulsor-from-louisville-facility-receives-additional-243-million-contract |title=BAE Systems Delivers First U.S. Navy Submarine Propulsor from Louisville Facility, Receives Additional $24.3 Million Contract |publisher=BAE Systems |date=1 June 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150605233253/http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_049643/bae-systems-delivers-first-us-navy-submarine-propulsor-from-louisville-facility-receives-additional-243-million-contract |archive-date=5 June 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> originally developed for the [[Royal Navy]]'s {{sclass|Swiftsure|submarine|1}}s.<ref>{{cite book |last1= Hool |first1=Jack |last2= Nutter |first2=Keith |title=Damned Un-English Machines, a history of Barrow-built submarines |publisher=Tempus |year=2003 |isbn= 978-0-7524-2781-2 |page=180}}</ref> The propulsor significantly reduces the risks of [[cavitation]], and allows quieter operation.

=== Improved sonar systems ===
[[Sonar]] arrays aboard ''Virginia''-class submarines have an "[[Open system (computing)|Open System Architecture]]" (OSA) which enables rapid insertion of new hardware and software as they become available. [[Hardware upgrade]]s (dubbed Technology Insertions) are usually carried out every four years, while [[software update]]s (dubbed Advanced Processor Builds) are carried out every two years. ''Virginia''-class submarines feature several types of sonar arrays.<ref name="npg13">{{cite web |date=2013 |title=US Navy Program Guide 2013 |url= http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/seapower/npg13/top-npg13.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160821160828/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/policy/seapower/npg13/top-npg13.pdf |archive-date=21 August 2016 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=US Navy}}</ref>
* BQQ-10 bow-mounted spherical [[active sonar|active]]/[[passive sonar]] array<ref name="npg13" /><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.soltron.co.kr/data/file/tech1_13/990609174_a5GOlHdf_Sonar_Type_Descriptions.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160629031446/http://www.soltron.co.kr/data/file/tech1_13/990609174_a5GOlHdf_Sonar_Type_Descriptions.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 June 2016 |title=APPENDIX C Exercise and Sonar Type Descriptions |date=December 2008 |access-date= 26 April 2015}}</ref> (Large Aperture Bow (LAB) sonar array from SSN-784 onward)
* A wide aperture lightweight fiber optic sonar array, consisting of three flat panels mounted low along either side of the hull<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/SubmarineHullArrays/Pages/ |title=Submarine Hull Arrays |publisher= Northrop Grumman |access-date=26 April 2015 }}{{dead link|date=August 2023|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>
* Two high frequency active sonars mounted in the sail and bow. The chin-mounted (below the bow) and sail-mounted high frequency sonars supplement the (spherical/LAB) main sonar array, enabling safer operations in coastal waters, enhancing under-ice navigation, and improving [[anti-submarine warfare]] performance.<ref>{{cite web
|url= http://www.ultra-os.com/special.php |title=Special Purpose Sonar |publisher= Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems |access-date= 26 April 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150314050256/http://www.ultra-os.com/special.php |archive-date=14 March 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/issue_3/uss_asheville.htm |title = USS ''Asheville'' Leads the Way in High Frequency Sonar
|publisher = Navy|volume = 1 |issue = 3|year = 1999|first1 = Leonard|last1 = Moreavek |first2 = T.J|last2 = Brudner
|access-date = 26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121002042424/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/cno/n87/usw/issue_3/uss_asheville.htm |archive-date = 2 October 2012|url-status = dead}}</ref>
* Low-Cost [[wikt:conformal|Conformal]] Array (LCCA) [[high frequency]] sonar, mounted on both sides of the submarine's sail. Provides coverage above and behind the submarine.<ref>{{cite web |last=Keller |first=John |url= http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2012/03/lockheed-martin-to-provide-navy-submarines-with-360-degree-situational-awareness-sail-mounted-sonar.html |title=Lockheed Martin to provide Navy submarines with 360-degree situational-awareness sail-mounted sonar |publisher=Military & Aerospace Electronics |date=25 March 2012 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150215230732/http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2012/03/lockheed-martin-to-provide-navy-submarines-with-360-degree-situational-awareness-sail-mounted-sonar.html |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

''Virginia''-class submarines are also equipped with a low frequency [[towed array sonar|towed sonar array]] and a high frequency towed sonar array.<ref name="military.com">{{cite web |url= http://www.military.com/equipment/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn |title=Virginia Class Attack Submarine - SSN | work =Military |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150507084934/http://www.military.com/equipment/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn |archive-date=7 May 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* TB-16 or TB-34 fat line tactical towed sonar array<ref name= "autogenerated3">{{cite web |url= http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013arci.pdf |title=Acoustic Rapid Commercial Off‑the‑Shelf (COTS) Insertion (A-RCI) and AN/BYG‑1 Combat Control System |publisher= OSD |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150923220213/http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2013/pdf/navy/2013arci.pdf |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name= "globalsecurity1">{{cite web |url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2009/dot-e/navy/2009arci.pdf |title=Acoustic Rapid Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Insertion for Sonar AN/BQQ-10 (V) (A-RCI) |publisher=Global Security |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150924065357/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2009/dot-e/navy/2009arci.pdf |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* TB-29 or TB-33 thin line long-range search towed sonar array<ref name="autogenerated3" /><ref name="globalsecurity1" />

=== Rescue equipment ===
* [[Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment]] MK11 suit(s) that enable ascent from a sunken submarine (maximum ascent depth {{convert|600|ft|m}})<ref name="npg13" /><ref>{{cite web |author=Crafty Devil |url= http://www.survitecgroup.com/products/seie-mk11 |title=Products » RFD Beaufort – SEIE MK11 |publisher=Survitec Group |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150427111710/http://survitecgroup.com/products/seie-mk11 |archive-date=27 April 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Lithium hydroxide]] canisters that remove [[carbon dioxide]] from the submarine's atmosphere<ref name="npg13" />
* Submarine Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon ([[SEPIRB]])<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.ultra-os.com/underwater.php |title=Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems - Underwater Communications |publisher=Ultra Electronics |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150506081603/http://www.ultra-os.com/underwater.php |archive-date=6 May 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=SSN 774 Class Guard Book – Disabled Submarine Survival Guide – Aft Escape Trunk (Logistics Escape Truck) |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/fltfor/insurv3/Getting_Inspected/Documents/Submarine/References/Survivability%20and%20Escape/774_Guard_Book/774CL%20Aft%20Guard%20Book%20S9594-AP-SAR-H10%20Rev00%20with%20ACN%201-1%20ACN%201-2%20ACN%201-3.pdf |at=Card 6I |publisher=US Navy |date=29 March 2012 |access-date=4 June 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140602213254/http://www.public.navy.mil/fltfor/insurv3/Getting_Inspected/Documents/Submarine/References/Survivability%20and%20Escape/774_Guard_Book/774CL%20Aft%20Guard%20Book%20S9594-AP-SAR-H10%20Rev00%20with%20ACN%201-1%20ACN%201-2%20ACN%201-3.pdf |archive-date=2 June 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Virginia Payload Module ===
[[File:150801-N-EO381-162.JPG|thumb|right|{{USS|John Warner|SSN-785|6}} at her commissioning ceremony on 1 August 2015, with forward Virginia Payload Tube hatch open]]
The Block III submarines have two multipurpose Virginia Payload Tubes (VPT) replacing the dozen single purpose cruise missile launch tubes.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://breakingdefense.com/2014/04/navy-sub-program-stumbles-ssn-north-dakota-delayed-by-launch-tube-troubles/ |title=Navy Sub Program Stumbles: SSN North Dakota Delayed By Launch Tube Troubles |last1=Freedberg Jr. |first1=Sydney J. |date=16 April 2014 |work = Breaking Defense |publisher=Breaking Media |access-date=16 April 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140417083219/http://breakingdefense.com/2014/04/navy-sub-program-stumbles-ssn-north-dakota-delayed-by-launch-tube-troubles/ |archive-date=17 April 2014 |url-status= live}}</ref>

The Block V submarines built from 2019 onward will have an additional Virginia Payload Module (VPM) mid-body section, increasing their overall length. The VPM will add four more VPTs of the same diameter and greater height, located on the centerline, carrying up to seven Tomahawk missiles apiece, that would replace some of the capabilities lost when the SSGN conversion {{sclass|Ohio|submarine|1}}s are retired from the fleet.<ref name=RL32418 /><ref name="VPM">{{cite web |url= http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/issues/archives/issue_47/virginia.html |title=The Virginia Payload Module: A Revolutionary Concept for Attack Submarines |last1=Hasslinger |first1=Karl |last2=Pavlos |first2=John |date=Winter 2012 |issue=47 |publisher=US Navy |access-date=16 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903104754/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/issues/archives/issue_47/virginia.html |archive-date=3 September 2014 |url-status= dead}}</ref> Initially eight payload tubes/silos were planned<ref name="VPM" /> but this was later rejected in favor of four tubes installed in a {{convert|70|ft|adj=on}} long module between the operations compartment and the propulsion spaces.<ref name="VPM" /><ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.usni.org/2013/11/04/navy-selects-virginia-payload-module-design-concept |title=Navy Selects Virginia Payload Module Design Concept |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=4 November 2013 |access-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131111113057/http://news.usni.org/2013/11/04/navy-selects-virginia-payload-module-design-concept |archive-date=11 November 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.usni.org/2013/10/24/document-peo-subs-overview-u-s-navy-undersea-programs#more-5177 |title=Document: PEO Subs Overview of U.S. Navy Undersea Programs |work=USNI News |publisher=U.S. Naval Institute |date=24 October 2013 |access-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111113609/http://news.usni.org/2013/10/24/document-peo-subs-overview-u-s-navy-undersea-programs#more-5177 |archive-date=11 November 2013 |url-status= live}}</ref>

The VPM could potentially carry (non-nuclear) medium-range ballistic missiles. Adding the VPM would increase the cost of each submarine by $500&nbsp;million (2012 prices).<ref>{{cite news |last=Grossman |first=Elaine M. |url=http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/us-senate-panel-limits-navy-effort-add-missiles-attack-submarines/ |title=U.S. Senate Panel Curbs Navy Effort to Add Missiles to Attack Submarines |agency=Global Security Newswire |publisher=Nuclear Threat Initiative |date=1 August 2012 |access-date=6 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130203025801/http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/us-senate-panel-limits-navy-effort-add-missiles-attack-submarines/ |archive-date=3 February 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> This additional cost would be offset by reducing the total submarine force by four boats.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |url=http://archive.navytimes.com/article/20130204/NEWS/302040306/Navy-cuts-fleet-goal-to-306-ships |title=Navy cuts fleet goal to 306 ships |work=Navy Times |date=4 February 2013 |access-date=6 February 2013}}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> More recent reports state that as a cost reduction measure the VPM would carry only Tomahawk SLCM and possibly unmanned undersea vehicles (UUV) with the new price tag now estimated at $360–380&nbsp;million per boat (in 2010 prices). The VPM launch tubes/silos will reportedly be similar in design to the ones planned for the ''Ohio'' class replacement.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ross |first=Robert T. |url=http://www.ct.gov/oma/cwp/view.asp?a=3422&q=525006 |title=Lower Ohio-Class Replacement Cost Tied To VA-Class Multiyear Deal: Could Achieve 8 To 15 Percent Savings |website=State of Connecticut, Office of Military Affairs |date=17 May 2013 |access-date=26 July 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130925093729/http://www.ct.gov/oma/cwp/view.asp?a=3422&q=525006 |archive-date=25 September 2013 |url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Kris |last= Osborn |url= http://defensetech.org/2014/01/28/navy-electric-boat-test-tube-launched-underwater-vehicle/ |title=Navy, Electric Boat Test Tube-Launched Underwater Vehicle |publisher=Defense Tech |location= Groton, [[Connecticut | CT]] |date=28 January 2014 |access-date=9 February 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140204222103/http://defensetech.org/2014/01/28/navy-electric-boat-test-tube-launched-underwater-vehicle/ |archive-date=4 February 2014 |url-status=usurped}}</ref> In July 2016 General Dynamics was awarded $19&nbsp;million for VPM development.<ref>{{cite web |date=19 July 2016 |title=General Dynamics Awarded $19 Million by U.S. Navy for Virginia Payload Module Development |url= http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2016/07/general-dynamics-awarded-19-million-us-navy-virginia-payload-module |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302114956/http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2016/07/general-dynamics-awarded-19-million-us-navy-virginia-payload-module |archive-date=2 March 2017 |access-date=1 March 2017}}</ref> In February 2017 General Dynamics was awarded $126&nbsp;million for long lead time construction of Block V submarines equipped with VPM.<ref>{{cite web |date=16 February 2017 |title=General Dynamics Awarded $126 Million by U.S. Navy for Virginia-Class Block V Long Lead Time Material |url= http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170302114946/http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press-releases/2017/02/general-dynamics-awarded-126-million-us-navy-virginia-class-block-v-long |archive-date=2 March 2017 |access-date=1 March 2017}}</ref>

The VPM was designed by General Dynamics Electric Boat;<ref>{{cite web |title=BWX Technologies to Develop Payload Tubes for Virginia-class Submarines |url= http://www.defenseworld.net/news/18058/BWX_Technologies_To_Develop_Payload_Tubes_For_Virginia_class_Submarines |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161702/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/18058/BWX_Technologies_To_Develop_Payload_Tubes_For_Virginia_class_Submarines |archive-date=30 June 2018 |access-date= 30 June 2018}}</ref> however, manufacturing is undertaken by BWX Technologies and BAE Systems.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-ramps-up-for-virginia-class-payload-module-launch-tube-production |title=BAE Systems ramps up for Virginia-class submarine payload module launch tube production |access-date=30 June 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180630161908/https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-ramps-up-for-virginia-class-payload-module-launch-tube-production |archive-date=30 June 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===High-energy laser weapon===
According to open-source budget documents, ''Virginia''-class submarines are planned to be equipped with a high-energy [[laser weapon]] likely to be incorporated into the photonics mast and have a power output of 300–500 kilowatts, based on the submarine's 30 megawatts reactor capacity.<ref name="pop_mech_laser_weapon">{{cite magazine |url= https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a30647372/laser-nuclear-subs/ |title=The Navy Is Arming Nuclear Subs With Lasers. No One Knows Why |magazine=[[Popular Mechanics]] |date=4 February 2020 |access-date=9 February 2020}}</ref><ref name= "Sutton_forbes_laser_weapon">{{cite magazine |url= https://www.forbes.com/sites/hisutton/2020/02/09/the-navy-will-arm-attack-submarines-with-high-energy-lasers/ |title=The Navy Is Arming Attack Submarines With High Energy Lasers |magazine= [[Forbes]] |date=9 February 2020 |access-date=9 February 2020}}</ref>

=== Other improved equipment ===
[[File:US Navy 040822-N-2653P-344 One of PCU Virginia's (SSN 774) new components is it's diesel generator, a Caterpillar 3512B V-12 Twin-turbo charged engine.jpg|thumb|''Virginia'' class diesel generator control panel]]
* [[Optical fiber]] [[fly-by-wire]] ''Ship Control System'' replaces electro-hydraulic systems for control surface actuation.
* [[Command and control]] system module (CCSM) built by Lockheed Martin.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/nssn/ |title=NSSN Virginia Class Attack Submarine |publisher=naval-technology |date=15 June 2011 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150420153602/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/nssn/ |archive-date=20 April 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Kearney |first=Tom|url=http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/pcu_virginia.html |title=Status Report: PCU Virginia (SSN-774) |publisher=US Navy |date=Spring 2001 |volume=3 |number=3 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150606034138/http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/underseawarfaremagazine/Issues/Archives/issue_11/pcu_virginia.html |archive-date=6 June 2015 |url-status =dead}}</ref>
* The auxiliary generator is powered by a Caterpillar model 3512B V-12 marine diesel engine. This replaced the [[Fairbanks-Morse]] diesel engine, which would not fit in ''Virginia''{{'}}s auxiliary machinery room.
* Modernized version of the AN/BSY-1 integrated combat system<ref name="SSN-774 Virginia class" /> designated AN/BYG-1 (previously designated CCS Mk2) and built by [[General Dynamics]] AIS (previously [[Raytheon]]).<ref>{{cite web |url= http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=360 |title= Raytheon Delivers Submarine Combat System to Royal Australian Navy |publisher=Raytheon |date=30 January 2006 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150215231030/http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=360 |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/General-Dynamics-To-Upgrade-Submarine-Weapons-Control-Systems-05631/ |title=General Dynamics To Upgrade Submarine Weapons Control Systems |date=21 July 2009 |work = Defense Industry Daily |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150511021719/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/General-Dynamics-To-Upgrade-Submarine-Weapons-Control-Systems-05631/ |archive-date=11 May 2015 |url-status= live}}</ref> AN/BYG-1 integrates the submarine Tactical Control System (TCS), Payload Control System (PCS) (formerly Weapon Control System (WCS)), and Information Assurance (IA).<ref>{{cite web |title=AN/BYG-1 Submarine Tactical Control System (TCS) |url= http://www.gd-ais.com/Domains/ANBYG-1-Submarine-Tactical-Control-System-(TCS) |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160304192350/http://www.gd-ais.com/Domains/ANBYG-1-Submarine-Tactical-Control-System-(TCS) |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher = General Dynamics}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2013/06/gd-cots-submarine.html |title=General Dynamics continues project to upgrade submarine electronics with COTS computers |publisher=Military & Aerospace Electronics |date=27 June 2013 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150215220456/http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/2013/06/gd-cots-submarine.html |archive-date=15 February 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Progeny Systems to build and upgrade submarine combat system to control weapons on Navy fast-attack boats |url=https://www.militaryaerospace.com/computers/article/14201664/submarine-weapons-combat-system |website=Military+Aerospace Electronics |date=20 April 2021 |access-date=25 February 2024}}</ref>
* USS ''California'' was the first ''Virginia''-class submarine with the advanced electromagnetic signature reduction system built into it, but this system is being retrofitted into the other submarines of the class.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09326sp.pdf |title= GAO-09-326SP
|publisher=[[Government Accounting Office]] |date=March 2009 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141206115911/http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09326sp.pdf |archive-date=6 December 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Integral 9-man [[Diving chamber|lock-out diving chamber]].<ref name= "aticourses">{{cite web |title=USS Virginia SSN-774-A New Steel Shark at Sea |url = http://www.aticourses.com/blog/index.php/2011/07/19/uss-virginia-ssn-774a-new-steel-shark-at-sea/ |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150509163728/http://www.aticourses.com/blog/index.php/2011/07/19/uss-virginia-ssn-774a-new-steel-shark-at-sea |archive-date=9 May 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |publisher=Applied Technology Institute}}</ref>